Papers
37
Total Citations
660
H-Index
14
About
Yin-Kai Chao is a pioneering thoracic surgeon whose research has fundamentally shaped the evolution of minimally invasive esophageal cancer surgery. Based at a leading institution in Taiwan, Chao has dedicated his career to advancing surgical techniques for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, with a particular focus on robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE) and the critical challenge of lymph node dissection along the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Chao's most influential contribution — a propensity-matched analysis comparing robotic versus video-assisted thoracoscopic esophagectomy, cited over 105 times — helped establish the clinical case for robotic approaches in achieving more thorough lymphadenectomy while reducing nerve injury risk. His landmark REVATE trial, which progressed from protocol publication to full multicenter randomized results, has provided some of the strongest evidence yet comparing these two surgical paradigms. With citations accumulating across international multicenter collaborations, including contributions to global registries through the Upper GI International Robotic Association, Chao has transcended single-institution research to influence global surgical standards. His work additionally extends into robotic microsurgery and sympathetic nerve reconstruction, demonstrating remarkable breadth. Collectively, his publications have garnered over 450 citations, cementing his reputation as an international authority in surgical oncology and robotic surgery innovation.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 5Robotic-Assisted Peripheral Nerve Surgery: A Systematic Review31 citations · 2021
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