Brent A. Chang, M.D.

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SUMMARY

The primary research goal of Brent A. Chang, M.D., is to improve oncologic and reconstructive surgery outcomes through a multi-level approach including clinical outcomes research, translational research, evidence-based medicine, and the development of novel surgical tools and techniques.

Focus areas

• Surgical innovation. Dr. Chang participates in developing novel surgical tools, approaches and techniques in head and neck surgery. He aims to use innovative advancements to improve care in the field of head and neck cancer and reconstruction.
• Surgical outcomes research. Dr. Chang conducts retrospective and prospective outcomes studies aimed at improving care in head and neck cancer with a focus on transoral surgery, reconstructive surgery and oncologic outcomes.
• Evidence-based medicine. Dr. Chang's research uses evidence-based medicine, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, to better standardize care in otolaryngology (ENT) — head and neck surgery.

Significance to patient care

The treatment of head and neck cancer remains an ongoing challenge. In addition to cancer outcomes, head and neck reconstruction is an area that is still in need of advancement. Current scientific evidence for existing treatments in head and neck cancer — reconstruction surgery in particular — is lacking because it is difficult to conduct randomized prospective clinical trials in this research area.

People with head and neck cancer often have debilitating functional and cosmetic consequences after treatment. It is Dr. Chang's hope to be able to better address these challenging consequences with novel techniques and treatment. Dr. Chang's ultimate goal is to help people with head and neck cancer achieve better outcomes.