Rachel A. Tobillo

Papers

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About

Dr. Rachel A. Tobillo is a head and neck surgical oncologist whose research focuses on optimizing treatment outcomes for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), particularly through the comparative effectiveness of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) versus radiation therapy. Her landmark study, "Ninety‐day mortality following transoral robotic surgery or radiation at Commission on Cancer‐accredited facilities" (2022), leveraged the National Cancer Database to provide critical real-world evidence on postoperative mortality rates for OPSCC patients undergoing TORS. This work, which has garnered 6 citations, challenged existing clinical trial data by revealing that actual mortality rates in community practice may differ from controlled trial settings, thereby informing more accurate preoperative counseling and patient selection. Dr. Tobillo’s contributions are particularly valuable for surgeons and oncologists navigating the complex decision-making between surgical and non-surgical treatment modalities. Her research underscores the importance of population-level data in refining treatment paradigms and improving patient safety. By bridging the gap between clinical trial findings and real-world outcomes, Dr. Tobillo continues to advance evidence-based practice in head and neck oncology, making her work essential reading for clinicians and researchers committed to enhancing survival and quality of life for patients with oropharyngeal cancer.