Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Dr. Sarah Hawkins is a leading clinician-scientist in head and neck oncology, with a primary focus on swallowing physiology and functional outcomes in oropharyngeal cancer. Her major contributions center on rigorously comparing the impact of modern treatment modalities—specifically transoral robotic surgery (TORS) versus radiotherapy—on patients’ quality of life and swallowing function. In her landmark 2024 study, a sub-analysis of the ORATOR randomized trial, Dr. Hawkins used videofluoroscopic imaging to objectively evaluate swallowing physiology in early-stage oropharynx cancer patients. This work provided critical, evidence-based insights into the functional trade-offs between surgical and radiation-based approaches, directly informing shared decision-making for patients and clinicians. While her most-cited paper is recent, its rapid accumulation of citations underscores its immediate relevance and impact in a field where functional preservation is paramount. Dr. Hawkins’ research bridges the gap between oncologic efficacy and survivorship, establishing her as a key voice in optimizing treatment de-escalation strategies. Her dedication to patient-centered outcomes continues to shape clinical guidelines and improve the lives of those battling head and neck cancers.