Paolo Porto de Melo

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Paolo Porto de Melo is a pioneering surgeon whose work bridges the gap between robotics and reconstructive surgery. His research focuses on developing minimally invasive, robot-assisted techniques for harvesting nerves and muscles, with the goal of reducing patient trauma and improving recovery times. In a landmark 2014 feasibility study on a pig model, de Melo demonstrated that robotic phrenic nerve harvest is both safe and effective, laying the groundwork for its application in restoring diaphragmatic function. He further advanced the field with a 2016 cadaver study and clinical test case, showing that the latissimus dorsi muscle can be harvested robotically with precision and minimal scarring. Though his citation counts—15 and 12, respectively—reflect the niche nature of his work, their impact is profound: they have opened new avenues for complex reconstructions, such as in brachial plexus repair or facial reanimation. De Melo’s contributions are notable for their translational value, turning high-tech surgical concepts into practical, patient-centered solutions. His research continues to inspire a generation of surgeons to explore robotic assistance as a tool for reducing invasiveness while maintaining surgical excellence.