Petra L.M. Zusterzeel

Papers

Total Citations

164

H-Index

About

Petra L.M. Zusterzeel is a leading gynecologic oncologist whose research centers on advancing surgical treatments for cervical cancer, with a particular focus on fertility-preserving techniques and the cost-effectiveness of robotic surgery. Her most influential work, a 2011 review comparing robot-assisted versus total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy in early cervical cancer, has garnered 100 citations, establishing her as a key voice in minimally invasive surgical innovation. Dr. Zusterzeel made a landmark contribution to fertility-sparing oncology with her 2020 study on neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by vaginal radical trachelectomy for FIGO 2018 stage 1B2 cervical cancer (tumors 2–4 cm). This work demonstrated that women with larger tumors could safely avoid radical hysterectomy, preserving fertility without compromising oncological outcomes—a paradigm shift for young patients facing cervical cancer. Demonstrating her commitment to healthcare value, she also developed an interactive tool (2021, 28 citations) that quantifies the benefits needed for robotic surgery to be cost-effective compared to endoscopic or open procedures. Through these contributions, Dr. Zusterzeel has not only advanced surgical precision but also championed patient-centered care that balances survival with quality of life.