Jaafar Basma

University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Jaafar Basma is a pioneering neurosurgeon whose work bridges the gap between minimally invasive robotic surgery and complex spinal pathology. His primary research focuses on the application of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for accessing the ventral craniovertebral junction, a notoriously difficult-to-reach region at the base of the skull. In his landmark 2021 paper, "Robotic-Assisted Tubular Transoral Parapharyngeal Approach to the Ventral Craniovertebral Junction," Basma introduced a novel technique that leverages robotic precision to reduce the morbidity associated with traditional open approaches to the spine. This work, which has garnered 3 citations, represents a significant step forward in expanding the utility of TORS beyond oropharyngeal lesions into spinal surgery. By demonstrating that robotic assistance can safely navigate the parapharyngeal space to reach the craniovertebral junction, Basma has opened new avenues for treating tumors, infections, and degenerative conditions in this critical area. His contributions are particularly notable for their potential to improve patient outcomes through reduced recovery times and lower complication rates, positioning him as a key innovator at the intersection of neurosurgery and robotic technology.