Head and Neck Surgical Oncology Medical Student Research Fellowship

Overview

In 2022, the Division of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology within the Department of Otolaryngology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center created a 12-month clinical research fellowship, that runs from July 1 - June 30. This research experience is geared towards aspiring otolaryngologists seeking a research year between their third and fourth years of medical school. The fellow will conduct clinical research within head and neck surgical oncology with their primary projects investigating the use of 3D scanning of head and neck surgical pathology specimens, as well as a novel open surgical video platform for education and competency. The fellow will have the opportunity to work closely with all surgeons within the head and neck division on clinical research projects throughout the year. The entire division will serve as the student's mentoring team with a member of the mentorship team meeting with the student at least weekly.

Educational Objectives

The goal of the medical student research fellowship is to offer fellows the skills and mentoring necessary to foster a career in academic otolaryngology. In addition, our program will prepare applicants for the competitive otolaryngology residency application cycle. The expectation is that the student will finish the year with multiple first-author publications. 

Skills learned during the fellowship include:

  • Electronic data capture (REDCap) software
  • Grant manuscript and IRB document writing
  • Clinical trial coordination
  • Research presentations (posters, oral)
  • Working intimately with all members of the head and neck cancer team (medical oncology, radiation oncology, speech-language pathology, pathology, neuroradiology)

There are opportunities for funding within the Vanderbilt Medical Scholars Program open to Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and Meharry Medical College students. Fellows are encouraged to apply for funding with the assistance of the mentorship team.  

For non-VU/Meharry students, there is a salary with benefits. 

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV, a cover letter explaining their interest in the program & previous relevant experience, and contact information for two references to Dr. Michael Topf.

Faculty

Past Fellows

Research Fellows Academic Productivity During Fellowship, to Date as of January 31, 2024.

Our second year fellows, Marina Aweeda and Carly Fassler, proved to be equally as successful as our inaugural fellows Alexis and Kavita. Please see examples of their outstanding work to date below!

Marina Aweeda, 2023-2024 
Medical School: CUNY School of Medicine

Publications:

  • Aweeda M, Adegboye F, Yang SF, Topf MC. (2024) Enhancing surgical vision: Augmented reality in otolaryngology—head and neck surgery. Journal of Medical Extended Reality 1:1, 124–136, DOI: 10.1089/jmxr.2024.0010.
  • Aweeda M, Fassler C, Chung Y, Huang L, Yueh S, Lawrenz J. M., Lewis J. S., & Topf M.C. (2024). Reimagining the Pathology Report: Virtual 3D Specimen Mapping in Oncologic Surgery. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, 22(2.5): QIM24-185. DOI:10.6004/jnccn.2023.7206
  • Aweeda M, Huang L, Perez AN, Ely KA, Mehrad M, Lewis JS, Topf MC. (2024), Augmented Reality-Guided Frozen Section Analysis: Bringing the Pathologist From the Laboratory to the Operating Room. OTO Open, 8: e70002. https://doi.org/10.1002/oto2.70002
  • Aweeda M, Richard K, Arnaud EH, Divi V, Goyal N, Topf MC. Factors influencing lymph node yield in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A scoping review. Oral Oncol. 2024 Oct 10; 159:107070. doi: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2024.107070. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39393310.
  • Aweeda M, Fassler C, Perez A, Miller A, Prasad K, et al. Visual Pathology Reports for Communication of Final Margin Status in Laryngeal Cancer Surgery. Journal of Pathology Informatics. 2024 Oct 28; 15: 100404. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpi.2024.100404.
  • Fassler C, Aweeda M, Perez A, Chung Y, et al. Digital Mapping of Resected Cancer Specimens: The Visual Pathology Report. Journal of Pathology Informatics. 2024 Sept 26; 15: 100399. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpi.2024.100399
  • Prasad K, Fassler C, Miller A, Aweeda M, Pruthi S, Fusco JC, Daniel B, Miga M, Wu JY, Topf MC. More than meets the eye: Augmented reality in surgical oncology. J Surg Oncol. 2024 Aug 19. doi: 10.1002/jso.27790. PMID: 39155686.
  • Colazo JM, Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Aweeda M et al. 3D Specimen Scanning and Mapping in Musculoskeletal Oncology: A Feasibility Study. Ann Surg Oncol 31, 2051–2060 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-023-14757-w
  • Colazo JM, Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Aweeda M et al. ASO Visual Abstract: Three-Dimensional Specimen Scanning and Mapping in Musculoskeletal Oncology: A Feasibility Study. Ann Surg Oncol 31, 2067–2068 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-023-14872-8
  • Colazo JM, Aweeda M, Fassler C, et al. ASO Author Reflections: 3D Specimen Scanning in Musculoskeletal Oncology. Ann Surg Oncol 31, 2061–2062 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-023-14848-8
  • Fassler C, Yalamanchi P, Aweeda M, Rezk J, Murphy B, et al. Visual Pathology Reports for Improved Collaboration at Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Tumor Board. Head and Neck Journal (2024). doi: 10.1002/hed.27926
  • Fassler C, Miller A, Sharif K, Prasad K, Aweeda M, Lewis J, Topf MC. Enhanced Communication of Tumor Margins Using 3D Scanning and Mapping. J. Vis. Exp. (202), e66253, doi:10.3791/66253 (2023).
  • Sharma K, Aweeda M, Philips R, Lockney N, Whitaker R, Topf MC. Impact and Predictors of Time to Postoperative Radiation Therapy in Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma. Laryngoscope (2024). Submitted and under peer review.
  • Aweeda M, Fassler C, Miller AB, Ortega C, Prasad K, Chen CL, Lopez M, Duffus SH, Belcher RH. Risk Factors and Rates for Hypocalcemia after Pediatric Thyroidectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Laryngoscope. September 2024. Submitted and under peer review.
  • Habib DRS, Prasad K, Aweeda M, George Lin, Bishay AE, Gao Y, Liu D, Langerman A. Patient rights and consent form language about intraoperative audiovisual recording. Ann Surg. September 2024. Submitted and under peer review.
  • Vittetoe KL, Aweeda M, Gao L, Naranjo C, Ye W, Langerman AJ, Mannion K, Netterville JL, Rosenthal EL, Sinard RJ, Topf MC, Rohde SL, Gelbard AH, Hicks MD. Mental Health Disorders and Pain in Patients Undergoing Head and Neck Free Flap Surgery. Journal of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. October 2024. Submitted and under peer review.

Presentations

  • Aweeda M, Lawrenz JM, Lewis JS, Topf MC. The Pathology Report of the Future: Virtual 3D Specimen Mapping in Oncologic Surgery. Poster presentation at the CUNY School of Medicine Student Research Competition. New York, NY. November 2024. 1st Place, Best Clinical Research Project.
  • Vittetoe K, Aweeda M, Gao L, Naranjo C, Ye WD, Hicks MD. Psychiatric Comorbidities and Pain in Patients Undergoing Head and Neck Free Flap Surgery. Oral presentation at the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Annual Meeting. Miami, FL. October 2024.
  • Aweeda M, Lee J, Hoke AK, Phillips R, Topf MC, Netterville JL. Enucleation of Cervical Schwannomas: an Analysis of Functional Outcomes of 100 Patients Treated Over a 20 Year Period. Poster presentation at the Vanderbilt Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 30th Annual Resident Research Competition. Nashville, TN. June 2024. 1st Place, Best Medical Student Poster.
  • Aweeda M, Huang L, Perez A, Ely K, Mehrad M, Lewis JS, Topf MC. Feasibility of an Augmented Reality Protocol to Enhance Communication of Frozen Section Analysis Results. Poster presentation at the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center Scientific Retreat. May 2024.
  • Adegboye F, Aweeda M, Peterson A, Topf MC, Patel PN, Stephan SJ, Yang SF. Efficacy and Feasibility of Augmented Reality in Rhinoplasty. Poster presentation at the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at COSM. Chicago, IL. May 2024.
  • Sharma RK, Aweeda M, Philips R, Lockney N, Whitaker R, Topf MC. Impact and Predictors of Time to Postoperative Radiation Therapy in Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma. Oral presentation at the Triological Society Annual Meeting at COSM. Chicago, IL. May 2024.
  • Aweeda M, Lee J, Hoke AK, Philips R, Topf MC, Netterville JL. Function Sparing Enucleation of Vagal, Sympathetic and Other Cervical Schwannomas: An Analysis of 100 Patients Treated Over a 20 Year Period. Poster Presentation at the American Head and Neck Society at COSM. Chicago, IL. May 2024.
  • Aweeda M, Sharma RK, Fassler C, Mansion K, Sinard R, Rohde S, Topf MC. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Laryngeal Cancer Time to Treatment Initiation. Poster presentation at the American Head and Neck Society at COSM. Chicago, IL. May 2024.
  • Prosak OL, Aweeda M, Prasad K, Lockney NA, Whitaker RM, Topf MC. Patient-Specific 3D Specimen Maps for Adjuvant Head and Neck Radiotherapy Planning. Poster Presentation at the American Head and Neck Society at COSM. Chicago, IL. May 2024.
  • Aweeda M, Huang L, Perez A, Lewis JS, Topf MC. Bringing the Pathologist to the Operating Room: Augmented Reality-Guided Frozen Section Analysis in Head and Neck Cancer Surgery. Oral presentation at the Haynes Innovation Symposium. Nashville, TN, April 2024.
  • Aweeda M, Fassler C, Chung Y, Huang L, Yueh S, Lawrenz JM, Lewis JS, Topf MC. Reimagining the Pathology Report: 3D Specimen Mapping in Oncologic Surgery. Poster presentation, National Cancer Care Network Annual Conference. Orlando, FL, April 2024
  • Aweeda M, Fassler C, Miller A, Prasad K, Yueh S, Lewis JS, Topf MC. 3D Scanning and Specimen Mapping for Enhanced Communication in Laryngeal Cancer Surgery. Poster presentation, Vanderbilt Translational Research Forum. Nashville, TN, February 2024.
  • Sharma RK, Fassler C, Aweeda M, Mannion K, Rohde S, Topf MC. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Oropharyngeal and Oral Cavity Malignancy Time to Treatment Initiation: a National Analysis. Poster presentation, Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. West Palm Beach, FL, January 2024.
  • Aweeda M, Prasad K, Gaines D, Whitaker R, Lockney N, Topf MC. The Role of 3D Specimen Models in Postoperative Radiotherapy Planning. Poster presentation, Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. West Palm Beach, FL, January 2024
  • Aweeda M, Tong G, Xu J, Pfister M, Huang L, Prasad K, Miller A, Wu JY, Topf MC. Augmented-Reality Surgery to Guide Head and Neck Cancer Resections. Poster presentation, Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Research Symposium. Nashville, TN December 2023
  • Fassler C, Aweeda M, Huang L, Lockney N, Lewis JS, Topf MC. Immersive 3D Specimen Maps: Transforming Communication at Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer Tumor Board. Poster presentation, Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Research Symposium. Nashville, TN December 2023

Other Experiences:

  • Educational Experiences: Tumor Board, Grand Rounds, Vanderbilt Resident Weekly Education
  • Course: Vanderbilt University Biostatistics Graduate Program: Introduction to Biostatistics
  • May 2024: VUMC Head and Neck Medical Mission Trip to Kijabe Hospital, Kenya 

Ongoing Projects:

  • Function Sparing Enucleation of Vagal, Sympathetic and Other Cervical Schwannomas
  • Patient-Specific Virtual 3D Specimen Maps for Adjuvant Head and Neck Radiotherapy Planning
  • Augmented Reality-Guided Frozen Section Analysis in Head and Neck Cancer Surgery
  • Virtual 3D Intraoperative Communication System for Orthopedic Oncology: A Feasibility Study
  • Video-Based Surgical Coaching for Teaching Otolaryngology Trainees

Clinical Trials: 

  • 3D Specimen Maps for Postoperative Radiotherapy (PORT) Planning

     

    Carly Fassler, 2023-2024
    Medical School: The Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University

Publications: 

  • Fassler C, Yalamanchi P, Aweeda M, Rezk J, Murphy B, Lockney NA, Whitaker R, Rigsby R, Aulino J, Hosokawa E, Mehrad M, Ely K, Lewis JS Jr, Derman E, LaHood E, Rohde SL, Sinard RJ, Rosenthal EL, Topf MC. Visual pathology reports for improved collaboration at multidisciplinary head and neck tumor board. Head Neck. 2024 Aug 29. doi: 10.1002/hed.27926. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39206523.
  • Prasad K, Fassler C, Miller A, Aweeda M, Pruthi S, Fusco JC, Daniel B, Miga M, Wu JY, Topf MC. More than meets the eye: Augmented reality in surgical oncology. J Surg Oncol. 2024 Aug 19. doi: 10.1002/jso.27790. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39155686.
  • Colazo JM, Aweeda M, Fassler C, Singh R, Lawrenz JM, Holt GE, Topf MC. ASO Author Reflections: 3D Specimen Scanning in Musculoskeletal Oncology. Ann Surg Oncol. 2024 Jan 3. doi: 10.1245/s10434-023-14848-8. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38170410.
  • Fassler C, Miller A, Sharif K, Prasad K, Aweeda M, Lewis J, Topf MC. Enhanced Communication of Tumor Margins Using 3D Scanning and Mapping. J Vis Exp. 2023 Dec 15;(202). doi: 10.3791/66253. PMID: 38163271. 
  • Colazo JM, Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Aweeda M, Fassler C, Singh R, Schwartz HS, Lawrenz JM, Holt GE, Topf MC. 3D Specimen Scanning and Mapping in Musculoskeletal Oncology: A Feasibility Study. Ann Surg Oncol. 2023 Dec 22. doi: 10.1245/s10434-023-14757-w. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38133863.
  • Fassler CA, Langerman AJ. Using Surgical Recording to Assess Team Dynamics. J Am Coll Surg. 2023 Oct 23. doi: 10.1097/XCS.0000000000000855. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37870225.
  • Fassler C, Aweeda M,  Perez A, Chung Y, Yueh S, Sinard R, Rohde S, Mannion K, Langerman A, Rosenthal E, Wu J, Mehrad M, Ely K, Lewis J, Topf MC. Digital Mapping of Resected Cancer Specimens: The Visual Pathology Report. Journal of Pathology Informatics.

Oral Presentations: 

  • Lee J, Fassler C, Mannion K, Lockney NA, Whitaker RM, Topf MC. Circulating Tumor Tissue-Modified-Viral-HPV DNA and Correlation With Disease Burden in Oropharyngeal Cancer. Podium presentation to be given at the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Annual Meeting; Sep 28, 2024; Miami, FL. 
  • Fassler C, Topf MC. Custom Software for 3D Scanning & Virtual Annotation of Pathologic Specimens. Podium presentation given at 2nd Annual Haynes Innovation Symposium; Apr 19, 2024; Nashville, TN.
  • Fassler C, Chung Y, Yeuh S, Huang L, Lewis J, Topf MC. 3D Specimen Mapping: The Pathology Report of the Future. Podium presentation given at Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting; Jan 27, 2024; West Palm Beach, FL.
  • Fassler C, Miller A, Weikert D, Mannion K, Topf MC, Rohde S. Development of a Cutting Guide for Osteocutaneous Radial Forearm Free Flap Harvest. Podium presentation given at Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting; Jan 25, 2024; West Palm Beach, FL.

Poster Presentations:

  • American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Annual Meeting | Sep 30th, 2024
    Fassler C, Sharma R, Vittetoe K, Yalamanchi P, Choe J, Topf MC, Hicks MD. Induction chemotherapy prior to surgical resection in advanced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. 
  • Vanderbilt Bill Wilkerson Center for Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, 30th Annual  Resident Research Competition | June 21st, 2024
    The Engineering and Science Building at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN
    Fassler C. Yalamanchi P, Aweeda M, Huang L, Topf MC. Investigating Visual Pathology Reports for Improved Multidisciplinary Tumor Board Discussions: A Pilot Study.
  • Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center 25th Annual Scientific Retreat | May 21st, 2024
    Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN
    Fassler C, Aweeda M, Huang L, Topf MC. QR Codes for Pathologic Specimen Visualization: Enhancing Multidisciplinary Communication.
  • “Promoting Healthier Connections with the World” Global Conference | May 20th, 2024
    Duke University, Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Durham, NC
    Fassler C, Eze AN, Netterville J, Evangelista L. The Value of Integrated Speech-Language Pathology in Otolaryngology Surgical Missions.
  • Combined Otolaryngology Sections Meeting – American Head and Neck Society | May 16th, 2024
    Aweeda M, Sharma R, Fassler C, Sinard, R, Rohde S, Topf MC. The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Laryngeal Cancer Time to Treatment Initiation.
  • Combined Otolaryngology Sections Meeting – American Academic of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery | May 16th, 2024
    Adegboye F, Aweeda M, Huang L, Fassler C, Stephan S, Patel P, Topf MC, Yang S. Augmenting Rhinoplasty with Augmented Reality: A Feasibility Study.
  • National Cancer Care Network Annual Conference | April 5th, 2024
    Aweeda M, Fassler C, Chung Y, Huang L, Yuen S, Lawrenz JM, Lewis JS, Topf MC. Reimagining the Pathology Report: 3D Specimen Mapping in Oncologic Surgery. 
  • 2024 Vanderbilt Translational Research Forum | February 2nd, 2024
    Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Nashville, TN
    Fassler C, Chung Y, Yeuh S, Huang L, Lewis J, Topf MC. The Pathology Report of Tomorrow: 3D Specimen Mapping.
  • Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting | January 25th, 2024
    Sharma RK, Fassler C, Aweeda M, Mannion K, Rohde S, Topf MC. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Oropharyngeal and Oral Cavity Malignancy Time to Treatment Initiation: A National Analysis
  • 12th Annual Surgery, Intervention, and Engineering Symposium | December 13th, 2023
    Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering, Nashville, TN
    Fassler C, Aweeda M, Huang L, Lockney N, Lewis J, Topf MC. Immersive 3D Specimen Maps: Transforming Communication at Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer Tumor Board

Ongoing Projects:

Head & Neck Global Surgery Trip | October 2023
Tawfiq Hospital; Malindi, Kenya
Assisted in managing the inpatient pre/post-anesthesia care unit and surgical schedule. Cared for 60+ head and neck surgical patients in the pre and post-operative setting in a resource-limited environment.

 

Alexis Miller, 2022-2023
Medical School: University of Vermont

Publications:

  • Sharif KF, Prasad K, Miller A, McPeak S, Denney JE, Lewis JS Jr, Topf MC. Enhanced Intraoperative Communication of Tumor Margins Using 3D Scanning and Mapping: The Computer-Aided Design Margin. Laryngoscope. 2023 Aug;133(8):1914-1918. doi: 10.1002/lary.30511. Epub 2022 Dec 19. PMID: 36533659; PMCID: PMC10277314.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Sharif KF, Adams DJ, Garbow L, Roberts E, Lewis JS Jr, Ely KA, Mehrad M, Rohde SL, Langerman AJ, Mannion K, Sinard RJ, Netterville JL, Rosenthal EL, Topf MC. Virtual 3D Specimen Mapping in Head & Neck Oncologic Surgery. Laryngoscope. 2024 Jan;134(1):191-197. doi: 10.1002/lary.30881. Epub 2023 Jul 19. PMID: 37466329; PMCID: PMC10796840.
  • Fassler C, Miller A, Sharif K, Prasad K, Aweeda M, Lewis J, Topf MC. Enhanced Communication of Tumor Margins Using 3D Scanning and Mapping. J Vis Exp. 2023 Dec 15;(202). doi: 10.3791/66253. PMID: 38163271.
  • Miller A, Stevens MN, Tang A, Cottrill E, Yang SF, Rohde SL. Characterizing gender trends in head and neck fellowship graduates from 2008 to 2018. Head Neck. 2023 Dec;45(12):2990-2995. doi: 10.1002/hed.27523. Epub 2023 Sep 29. PMID: 37772679.
  • Colazo JM, Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Aweeda M, Fassler C, Singh R, Schwartz HS, Lawrenz JM, Holt GE, Topf MC. 3D Specimen Scanning and Mapping in Musculoskeletal Oncology: A Feasibility Study. Ann Surg Oncol. 2023 Dec 22. doi: 10.1245/s10434-023-14757-w. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38133863.
  • Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Colazo JM, Ye W, Necker F, Baik F, Lewis JS Jr, Rosenthal E, Wu JY, Topf MC. Augmented-Reality Surgery to Guide Head and Neck Cancer Re-resection: A Feasibility and Accuracy Study. Ann Surg Oncol. 2023 Aug;30(8):4994-5000. doi: 10.1245/s10434-023-13532-1. Epub 2023 May 3. PMID: 37133570.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Quach WT, Lin GT, Smetak M, Langerman A. Talking with Patients about Surgical Trainees. J Clin Ethics. 2023 Spring;34(1):98-102. doi: 10.1086/723315. PMID: 36940349.
  • Perez AN, Sharif KF, Guelfi E, Li S, Miller A, Prasad K, Sinard RJ, Lewis JS Jr, Topf MC. Ex vivo 3D scanning and specimen mapping in anatomic pathology. J Pathol Inform. 2023 Jan 2;14:100186. doi: 10.1016/j.jpi.2022.100186. PMID: 36687529; PMCID: PMC9852486.
  • Sharif KF, Prasad K, Miller A, McPeak S, Denney JE, Lewis JS Jr, Topf MC. Enhanced Intraoperative Communication of Tumor Margins Using 3D Scanning and Mapping: The Computer-Aided Design Margin. Laryngoscope. 2022 Dec 19. doi: 10.1002/lary.30511. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 36533659.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Quach WT, Lin GT, Smetak M, Langerman A. Talking with Patients About Surgical Trainees. Accepted for Publication: The Journal of Clinical Ethics.
  • Miller A, Patro A, Stevens MN, Fortune DS, Haynes DS, Topf MC. The Top 75 Twitter Influencers in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and Association with Academic Impact. Submitted: The Laryngoscope

Presentations:

  • Fassler C, Miller A, Weikert D, Mannion K, Topf MC, Rohde S. Development of a Cutting Guide for Osteocutaneous Radial Forearm Free Flap Harvest. To be presented at: Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting; Jan 24-27, 2024; West Palm Beach, FL.
  • Aweeda M, Tong G, Xu J, Pfister M, Huang L, Prasad K, Miller A, Wu JY, Topf MC. Augmented Reality Surgery to Guide Head and Neck Cancer Resections. Poster presented at: Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Research Symposium; Dec 2023; Nashville, TN.
  • Tong G, Xu J, Pfister M, Atoum J, Prasad K, Miller A, Topf MC, Wu JY. Development of an Augmented Reality Guidance System for Head and Neck Cancer Resection. Presented at: Augmented Environments for Computer-Assisted Interventions; Oct 8, 2023; Vancouver, Canada.
  • Colazo JM, Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, McPeak S, Singh R, Lewis JS Jr, Lawrenz JM, Holt GE, Topf MC. Making Negative Margins in Musculoskeletal Tumor Surgery a Virtual Reality Using 3D Specimen Scanning. Poster presented at: Musculoskeletal Tumor Society 2023 Annual Meeting; Oct 4-6, 2023; Banff, Alberta, Canada.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Langerman AJ. Patient Perceptions and Permissions for a De-Identified Surgical Video Database. To be presented at: American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery 2023 Annual Meeting; Sept 30-Oct 4, 2023; Nashville, TN.
  • Miller A, Stevens MN, Tang A, Cottrill E, Yang SF, Rohde SL. Characterizing Gender Trends in Head and Neck Fellowship Graduates from 2008 to 2018. Poster presented & selected for poster tour at: American Head and Neck Society 11th Annual International Meeting; July 8-12, 2023; Montreal, Canada.
  • Stevens MN, Hosokawa E, West M, Miller A, Hereford A, Fleming M, Topf MC. Impact of Nasogastric Feeding Tube on Swallow: Preliminary Data from a Multidisciplinary Trial. Poster presented at: American Head and Neck Society 11th Annual International Meeting; July 8-12, 2023; Montreal, Canada.
  • Upton M, Miller A, Prasad K, Reddy N, Mendelsohn AH, Tassone P, Topf MC. Laryngeal Cancer Treatment Decision Making: A Conjoint Analysis of Priorities of Patients with a History of Treated Laryngeal Cancer. Presented at: American Head and Neck Society 11th Annual International Meeting; July 8-12, 2023; Montreal, Canada.
  • Naveed AB, Prasad K et al. Efficacy of T-DXd (Trastuzumab-Deruxtecan) in targeting HER-2 positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: An in-vivo and in-vitro study. AHNS July 8-12, 2023.
  • Miller A, Weikert DR, Rohde SL, Rosenthal E, Topf MC. Development of a Cutting Guide for Osteocutaneous Radial Forearm Free Flaps. Poster presented at: Annual Resident Research Day; June 16, 2023; Nashville, TN.
  • Cagle JL, ...Prasad K., Graboyes E. Association of social vulnerability with delays in starting guideline-adherent adjuvant therapy among patients with head and neck cancer. ASCO. June 3-6, 2023.
  • Prasad K et al. How often is cancer present in oral cavity re-resections after initial positive margins? Triological Society COSM May 2023.
  • Prasad K et al. Intraoperative 3D Scanning and Mapping for Transoral Robotic Surgery Oncologic Specimens. Triological Society COSM May 2023
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Sharif K, Mannion K, Lewis JL, Topf MC. Postoperative Communication of Margin Location using Virtual 3D Specimen Maps. Poster presented at: Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center (VICC) Annual Scientific Retreat; May 23, 2023; Nashville, TN.
  • Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Wu JY, Topf MC. Augmented Reality in Head and Neck Surgical Oncology: A Novel Technique to Guide Re-Resection. Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center Scientific Retreat. May 23, 2023.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Sharif K, Mannion K, Lewis JS Jr, Topf MC. Utility of Virtual 3D Specimen Maps for Postoperative Management of Head and Neck Surgery Patients. Grand Rounds presentation, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery; Vanderbilt University Medical Center. May 19, 2023; Nashville, TN.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Sharif K, Mannion K, Lewis J, Topf MC. Virtual 3D Specimen Mapping in Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery. Podium presentation to be given at: Triological Society Annual Meeting at COSM; May 3-7, 2023; Boston, MA.
  • Miller A, Patro A, Stevens MN, Haynes DS, Topf MC. The Top 75 Twitter Influencers in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Poster presented at: Triological Society 2023 Combined Sections Meeting; Jan 26-28, 2023; Coronado, CA.
  • Sharif K, Lewis J, Miller A, Prasad K, Rosenthal E, Topf MC. The CAD Margin: Ex vivo 3D Specimen Mapping to Improve Communication between Surgeons and Pathologists.  Poster presentation at Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. Coronado, CA. January 26-28, 2023.  
  • Prasad K, Sharma RK, Topf MC. Increasing Authors in Otolaryngology Journal From 1986 to 2021. Poster presentation at Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. Coronado, CA. January 26-28, 2023.  
  • Miller A, Langerman A. “Designing a De-Identified Surgical Video Database.” Poster presented at: Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering (VISE) 11th Annual Surgery, Intervention, and Engineering Symposium; Dec 7, 2022; Nashville, TN.
  • Prasad K et al. 3D Scanning and Specimen Mapping: Innovations in Intraoperative Communication of Frozen Section Results. VISE Research Symposium. December 7, 2022
  • Prasad K et al. The CAD Margin Analysis: 3D Scanning and Specimen Mapping for Enhanced Intraoperative Communication. Vanderbilt University Translational Research Forum. October 21, 2022

Submitted Conference Abstracts:

  • Miller A, Stevens MN, Tang A, Cottrill E, Yang SF, Rohde SL.  Characterizing Gender Trends in Head and Neck Fellowship Graduates from 2008 to 2018.
  • Submitted to American Head and Neck Society; July 2023; Montreal, Canada.
  • Upton M, Miller A, et al. Laryngeal Cancer Treatment Decision Making: A Conjoint Analysis of Priorities of Patients with a History of Treated Laryngeal Cancer. Submitted to American Head and Neck Society; July 2023; Montreal, Canada.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Langerman AJ. Patient Perceptions and Permissions for a De-Identified Surgical Video Database. Submitted to AAO-HNSF 2023 Annual Meeting; Sept-Oct 2023; Nashville, TN.

Other Experiences:

  • Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering (VISE): Building body-mounted camera for surgical video recording (Use of industrial laser cutter, assembly of 3D-printed, electrical, and computer components, electrical engineering including wire splicing, soldering)
  • VUMC Head and Neck Medical Mission Trip: Tawfiq Hospital; Malindi, Kenya, Oct 2022.
  • Educational Experiences: Tumor Board, Grand Rounds, Vanderbilt Resident Weekly Education

Study/Publications:

  • Accuracy of Surgical Margin Relocation Utilizing Virtual 3D Models
  • Utility of imaging characteristics to predict the need for carotid resection in carotid body tumor surgery
  • Quality of Life in Patients with Recurrent Thyroid Cancer
  • Development of a Radius Cutting Guide for Osteocutaneous Radial Forearm Free Flap
  • Mixed Reality in Surgical Oncology: A Scoping Review
  • Virtual 3D Intraoperative Communication System for Orthopedic Oncology: A Feasibility Study
  • Mixed Reality Surgery in Head and Neck Cancer Surgery: An Accuracy and Feasibility Study

Publication:

  • Role of oral cavity cancer microbiome in post-operative infectious complications
  • A Machine Learning Approach to Predicting Occult Nodal Metastases in Early Stage Oral Tongue Cancer

Clinical Trial:

  • ALUME Nerve Monitoring
 

Kavita Prasad, 2022-2023
Medical School: Tufts School of Medicine

Publications:

  • Prasad K, Sharma R, Habib D, Sinard R, Mannion K, Rohde S, Langerman A, Netterville J, Rosenthal E, Lewis J, Topf MC. How Often is Cancer Present in Oral Cavity Re-resections After Initial Positive Margins? Laryngoscope. 2023 Aug 16. doi: 10.1002/lary.30959. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37584332. 
  • Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Colazo J, Ye W, Necker F, Baik F, Lewis J, Rosenthal E, Wu JY, Topf, MC. (2023). Augmented-Reality Surgery to Guide Head and Neck Cancer Re-resection: A Feasibility and Accuracy Study. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 10.1245/s10434-023-13532-1.
  • Prasad K, Lewis, James, Wu, Jie Ying, Rosenthal, Eben, Topf, Michael. (2023). ASO Author Reflections: Augmented Reality in Head and Neck Oncology. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 10.1245/s10434-023-13582-5.
  • Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Colazo J, Ye W, Necker F, Baik F, Lewis J, Rosenthal E, Wu JY, Topf, MC (2023). ASO Visual Abstract: Augmented Reality Surgery to Guide Head and Neck Cancer Re-resection: A Feasibility and Accuracy Study. 10.1245/s10434-023-13614-0.
  • Prasad K, Topf MC,  Clookey S, Philips R, Curry J, Tassone P. (2023). Trends in Positive Surgical Margins in cT3-T4 Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery 10.1002/ohn.377.
  • Cagle J, Ramadan S, Prasad K, Yan F, Pearce J, Mazul A, Hill E, Chera B, Sterba K, Hughes-Halbert C, Tam C, Topf MC, Sandulache V,  Puram S, Graboyes E (2023). Association of social vulnerability with delays in starting guideline-adherent adjuvant therapy among patients with head and neck cancer.. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 41. 6523-6523. 10.1200/JCO.2023.41.16_suppl.6523.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Sharif KF, Adams DJ, Garbow L, Roberts E, Lewis JS< Ely KA, Mehra M, Netterville JL, Rohde S, Langerman AJ, Mannion K, Sinard R, Rosenthal EL, Topf MC. (2023) Virtual 3D Specimen Mapping in Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery. Laryngoscope.
  • Sharif KF, Prasad K, Miller A, McPeak S, Denney JE, Lewis JS, Topf MC. Enhanced Intraoperative Communication of Tumor Margins Using 3D Scanning and Mapping: The Computer-Aided Design Margin. Laryngoscope. 2022 Dec 19. PMID: 36533659.
  • Miller A, Prasad K, Quach W,Lin G, Smetak M,  Langerman AJ (2023). Talking with Patients about Surgical Trainees. The Journal of Clinical Ethics. 34. 98-102. 10.1086/723315.
  • Perez AN, Sharif KF, Guelfi E, Li S, Miller A, Prasad K, Sinard RJ, Lewis JS, Topf MC. Ex vivo 3D scanning and specimen mapping in anatomic pathology. J Pathol Inform. 2023 Jan 2. PMID: 36687529. 

 Presentations:

  • Prasad K et al. The CAD Margin Analysis: 3D Scanning and Specimen Mapping for Enhanced Intraoperative Communication. Vanderbilt University Translational Research Forum. October 21, 2022
  • Prasad K. Delays in Postoperative Radiation Therapy Delay. Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center & Head and Neck Tumor Board. December 2022.
  • Prasad K et al. 3D Scanning and Specimen Mapping: Innovations in Intraoperative Communication of Frozen Section Results. Poster presentation at VISE Research Symposium Dec 7,2022.
  • Prasad K, Topf MC, Clookey S, Tassone P. Trends in Positive Surgical Margins in cT3-T4 Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Oral presentation at Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting.  Coronado, CA. January 26-28, 2023. 
  • Prasad K, Sharma RK, Topf MC. Increasing Authors in Otolaryngology Journal From 1986 to 2021. Poster presentation at Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. Coronado, CA. January 26-28, 2023.  
  • Sharif K, Lewis J, Miller A, Prasad K, Rosenthal E, Topf MC. The CAD Margin: Ex vivo 3D Specimen Mapping to Improve Communication between Surgeons and Pathologists.  Poster presentation at Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. Coronado, CA. January 26-28, 2023.
  • Prasad K, Sharma RK, Topf MC. Increasing Authors in Otolaryngology Journal From 1986 to 2021. Poster presentation at Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. Coronado, CA. January 26-28, 2023.  
  • Prasad K et al. The CAD Margin Analysis: 3D Scanning and Specimen Mapping for Enhanced Intraoperative Communication. Poster presentation at Vanderbilt University Translational Research Forum.
  • Prasad K et al. Intraoperative 3D Scanning and Mapping for Transoral Robotic Surgery Oncologic Specimens. Poster to be presented at Triological Society COSM May 2023
  • Prasad K et al. How often is cancer present in oral cavity re-resections after initial positive margins? Poster to be presented at Triological Society COSM May 2023
  • Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Wu JY, Topf MC. Augmented Reality in Head and Neck Surgical Oncology: A Novel Technique to Guide Re-Resection. Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center Scientific Retreat. May 23, 2023.
  • Cagle JL, ...Prasad K., Graboyes E. Association of social vulnerability with delays in starting guideline-adherent adjuvant therapy among patients with head and neck cancer. ASCO. June 3-6, 2023.
  • Prasad K. Vivek N., Sharma R., Mannion K., Rodhe S., Sinard R., Langerman A., Netterville J., Lockney N., Rosenthal E., Topf MC. Social Determinants of Delays in Adjuvant Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer. AHNS. Montreal, Canada. July 8-12, 2023,
  • Prasad K., Peterson N., Nolen D., Mannion K., Rohde S., Macharia C., Sinard R. Building a Sustainable Free Flap Program in a Resource-limited Setting: an eleven-year humanitarian effort. AHNS. Montreal, Canada. July 8-12, 2023.
  • Upton M, Miller A, Prasad K, et al. Laryngeal Cancer Treatment Decision Making: A Conjoin Analysis of Priorities of Patients with a History of Treated Laryngeal Cancer. AHNS. Montreal, Canada. July 8-12, 2023.
  • Naveed AB, Prasad K et al. Efficacy of T-DXd (Trastuzumab-Deruxtecan) in targeting HER-2 positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: An in-vivo and in-vitro study. AHNS July 8-12, 2023.
  • Colazo JM, Prasad K, Miller A, Sharif K, Mcpeak S, Singh R, Lewis JS, Lawrenz JM, Holt GE, Topf MC. Making Negative Margin Musculoskeletal Tumor Surgery a Virtual Reality Using 3D Specimen Scanning. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) Chicago, IL. November 1-4, 2023.
  • Prasad K, Stevens M, Sharma R, Topf MC, Langerman A, Mannion K, Rohde S, Comparing outcomes for microvascular free flap patients in a non-intensive care setting. AAO-HNS. Nashville, TN. November 3-7, 2023.
  • Vivek N, Clark E, Xu S, Baskauf S, Prasad K, Nguyen K, Gao L, Goldin M, Miller A, Gelbard A. Otolaryngology Network Hub Analysis. Triological Combined Sections Meeting. West Palm Beach, FL. January 25-27, 2024.
  • Aweeda M, Prasad K, Gaines D, Lockney N, Whitaker R, Topf MC. Dimensions to Decisions: The Role of 3D Specimen Models in Postoperative Radiotherapy Planning. Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. January 25-27, 2024. West Palm Beach, Florida.

Submitted Conference Abstracts:

  • Ullah H. Prasad K, Yasinzai AQ, Rasool B, Tareen B, Baloch G, Tareen MA, Tareen AS, Khan M. Lee KT, Heneidi S, Khan AU, Ullah A. Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma Predictive Factors and Outcomes: A SEER Database Analysis. Annual Academy Surgical Congress. February 6-8, 2023. Washington DC.
  • Prasad K et al. Social Determinants of Delays in Adjuvant Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer. AHNS July 2023
  • Prasad K et al. Building a Sustainable Free Flap Program in a Resource-limited Setting: an eleven-year humanitarian effort. AHNS July 2023
  • Upton M, Miller A, Prasad K, et al. Laryngeal Cancer Treatment Decision Making: A Conjoin Analysis of Priorities of Patients with a History of Treated Laryngeal Cancer
  • Naveed AB, Prasad K et al. Efficacy of T-DXd (Trastuzumab-Deruxtecan) in targeting HER-2 positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: An in-vivo and in-vitro study. AHNS July 2023.
  • Prasad K, Stevens M, Sharma R, Topf MC, Langerman A, Mannion K, Rohde S, Comparing outcomes for microvascular free flap patients in a non-intensive care setting. American Academy of Otolaryngology
  • Vivek N, Prasad K, Philips R, West M, Lockney N, Topf MC. Discharge Summary Prompts Reduce Postoperative Radiation Treatment (PORT) Delay in Head and Neck Cancer Patients. . Triological Society Combined Sections Meeting. January 25-27, 2024. West Palm Beach, Florida. 

Other Experiences:

  • Provisional Patent. Modified Bolster Device. A. Langerman and K. Prasad
  • Course: Vanderbilt Data Science Institute -Artificial Intelligence Winter Workshop on Natural Language Processing and Transformer Modelling
  • Educational Experiences: Tumor Board, Grand Rounds, Vanderbilt Resident Weekly Education
  • Coming in May 2023: VUMC Head and Neck Medical Mission Trip to Kijabe Hospital, Kenya

Ongoing Projects:

Study/Publication

  • Mixed Reality in Surgical Oncology: A Scoping Review.
  • Virtual Patient-specific 3D Specimen Maps for Adjuvant Head and Neck Radiotherapy Planning
  • Virtual 3D Intraoperative Communication System for Orthopedic Oncology: A Feasibility Study.

Publication:

  • Prasad K et al. Consideration of Antifungal Coverage in Treating Infections Related to Delayed Esophageal Perforation from Anterior Cervical Spine Hardware. ID Cases
  • Ullah A & Prasad K et al. Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma Predictive Factors and Outcomes: A SEER Database Analysis. Thyroid
  • Mixed Reality Surgery in Head and Neck Cancer Surgery: An Accuracy and Feasibility Study. TBD.

Clinical Trial

  • Alume Nerve Monitoring Trial