Sofia Torres‐Small

University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Dr. Sofia Torres‐Small is a pioneering surgeon-scientist whose work sits at the intersection of advanced robotics and complex head and neck reconstruction. Her primary research focuses on developing and refining robotic-assisted surgical techniques to improve outcomes in oncologic and reconstructive procedures. Her most notable contribution is the first reported clinical demonstration of a robotic surgical assist arm—specifically the Zimmer Biomet WalterLorenz system—in a challenging head and neck reconstruction. In this landmark 2025 video publication, she details the use of the robotic arm to facilitate a scapular tip/latissimus dorsi free flap transfer in a 67-year-old patient with advanced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. This work, already garnering 2 citations, showcases her ability to translate cutting-edge engineering into tangible surgical solutions, reducing tremor and enhancing precision in microvascular anastomosis. Dr. Torres‐Small’s research is reshaping the standard of care for complex head and neck defects, offering new hope for patients with advanced malignancies. Her innovative approach positions her as a leading voice in the emerging field of robotic reconstructive surgery, with her work serving as a critical reference for surgeons seeking to integrate robotic assistance into their practice.