Tate Naylor

University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Tate Naylor is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotic surgery and head and neck oncology, whose work is redefining the boundaries of reconstructive microsurgery. His primary research areas include robotic-assisted surgical systems, free flap reconstruction, and the management of advanced oral cavity malignancies. Naylor’s most notable contribution is his 2025 video demonstration of a robotic surgical assist arm—specifically the Zimmer Biomet WalterLorenz system—in a complex scapular tip/latissimus dorsi free flap reconstruction for a 67-year-old patient with advanced squamous cell carcinoma. This work showcases how robotic precision can enhance outcomes in technically demanding head and neck procedures, offering a new paradigm for minimally invasive yet highly intricate reconstructions. While his citation count is still emerging (2 citations), the novelty and clinical relevance of his approach have already positioned him as a forward-thinking voice in surgical innovation. Naylor’s research holds promise for reducing operative morbidity and improving functional recovery, making him a key figure to watch in the evolving landscape of robotic head and neck surgery.