Francesca Ruju
Papers
3
Total Citations
20
H-Index
3
About
Francesca Ruju is a leading head and neck surgeon whose work is reshaping the treatment landscape for HPV-positive oropharyngeal and laryngeal cancers. Her research centers on the comparative effectiveness of minimally invasive surgical approaches—particularly transoral robotic surgery (TORS)—versus non-surgical modalities like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). In a landmark 2022 study, she provided crucial real-world data comparing upfront TORS with IMRT for locally advanced HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer, demonstrating that surgery can achieve excellent oncologic and functional outcomes while potentially reducing long-term toxicity. This work, already cited 9 times, challenges prevailing treatment paradigms. Ruju has also pioneered the use of salvage TORS for recurrent oropharyngeal carcinoma, offering a second chance at cure for patients with limited options. Additionally, her 2023 study on mini-invasive transoral surgery without neck dissection for supraglottic laryngeal cancer showcases her commitment to de-escalating treatment while preserving quality of life. With over 20 citations across her most influential papers, Ruju is a rising voice in evidence-based surgical oncology, advocating for patient-centered, function-preserving care.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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