Kimihide Kusafuka | Neck Cancer | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Kimihide Kusafuka | Neck Cancer | Editorial Board Member

Clinical Physician | Shizuoka General Hospital | Japan

Dr. Kimihide Kusafuka is a distinguished pathologist at Shizuoka General Hospital, Japan, internationally recognized for his expertise in head and neck pathology, salivary gland tumors, and molecular oncopathology. His research has been instrumental in redefining diagnostic criteria, histopathological classifications, and gene alteration profiles across a spectrum of rare and aggressive neoplasms. Dr. Kusafuka has contributed significantly to the understanding of salivary duct carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, and solitary fibrous tumors through large-cohort analyses, multi-institutional collaborations, and advanced molecular techniques, including MYB/MYBL1 rearrangement characterization, CRTC1/3-MAML2 fusion analysis, and the identification of novel tumor variants. His scholarly output comprises 100 peer-reviewed documents, reflecting a sustained commitment to translational pathology and precision diagnostics. With more than 380 collaborators worldwide, his work has shaped global guidelines, influenced tumor classification systems, and improved prognostic assessment models for clinicians and researchers in the field. Dr. Kusafuka’s studies spanning molecular pathology, surgical pathology, and carcinoma outcome prediction—continue to strengthen diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic decision-making, ultimately improving patient outcomes and contributing to the advancement of cancer pathology. His rigorous methodologies, cross-disciplinary partnerships, and leadership in multi-center Japanese cohorts highlight his role as a leading figure in contemporary oncologic pathology. Dr. Kusafuka’s academic influence and research productivity are reflected in his metrics: 1,768 citations, 100 documents, and an h-index of 25.

Profiles: Scopus| ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). A symptomatic intercalated duct lesion of the parotid gland: A case report with immunohistochemical and genetic analyses. Medical Molecular Morphology. Citations: 2

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). Salivary gland polymorphous adenocarcinoma: Clinicopathological features and gene alterations in 36 Japanese patients. Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine.Citations: 6

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). Intraoral basal cell carcinoma of the soft palate: A diagnostic pitfall. Citations: 2

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). The implicated clinical factors for outcomes in 304 patients with salivary duct carcinoma: Multi-institutional retrospective analysis in Japan. Head & Neck.  Citations: 12

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). Salivary mucoepidermoid carcinoma: Histological variants, grading systems, CRTC1/3-MAML2 fusions, and clinicopathological features. Histopathology. Citations: 28

Xin Yi Foong | Breast Cancer | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Xin Yi Foong | Breast Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Core Surgical Trainee | Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust | United Kingdom

Dr Xin Yi Foong is a clinical researcher in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery whose academic work is centred on improving the safety, accuracy, and reliability of autologous breast reconstruction through quantitative imaging and evidence-based microsurgical innovation. Her research explores the use of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging to guide intraoperative evaluation of mastectomy flap perfusion, with particular emphasis on establishing objective perfusion scoring methods that support consistent, data-guided surgical decisions. Her published study in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery introduced a structured quantitative perfusion algorithm that demonstrated strong discriminatory capability in identifying poorly perfused tissue and informing reconstructive planning, offering evidence that aligns with national quality frameworks and enhances postoperative outcomes. Alongside this work, she is investigating postoperative monitoring strategies in DIEP flap reconstruction, assessing early-phase observation models that preserve patient safety while promoting efficient and clinically coherent perioperative pathways. Her wider academic activity includes outcome audits, service-improvement initiatives, and reconstructive pathway analyses, all aimed at refining surgical workflows through quantitative measures, imaging-based assessment, and rigorous postoperative metrics. Conducted within multidisciplinary teams of plastic surgeons, anaesthetists, and breast specialists, her research supports the translation of imaging-derived insights into routine clinical practice. Through a growing publication profile, an active ORCID research identity, and sustained commitment to scientifically grounded surgical advancement, Dr Foong contributes to the development of reproducible, clinically meaningful, and patient-centred innovations that strengthen microsurgical dependability and elevate the overall quality of care within reconstructive breast surgery.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Foong, X. Y., Williamson, A., Lymperopoulos, N., & Holmes, W. J. M. (2025). Does indocyanine green imaging perfusion scoring reduce mastectomy flap necrosis in immediate autologous breast reconstruction? A single-centre cohort study. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, 111, 198–206.

2. Foong, X. Y., Williamson, A., Lymperopoulos, N., & Holmes, W. J. M. (2025). Does intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) reduce the outcome of mastectomy skin flap necrosis in patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction? European Journal of Surgical Oncology. Advance online publication. 

Cancer Research and Advocacy

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Cancer Research and Advocacy

Introduction: Cancer Research and Advocacy stand as pillars in the global effort to combat cancer, addressing both the scientific exploration of this complex disease and the vital support and awareness needed for patients and their families. Together, they strive to improve prevention, early detection, and treatment while championing the rights and well-being of those affected by cancer.

Subtopics in Cancer Research and Advocacy:

Advancements in Cancer Research: Dive into the latest breakthroughs in cancer research, including novel treatment modalities, understanding cancer genetics, and exploring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence in cancer diagnosis and prognosis.

Patient-Centric Care: Explore the advocacy efforts focused on ensuring patients receive the best possible care, including initiatives to enhance access to treatment, improve patient outcomes, and promote a patient-centered healthcare system.

Early Detection and Screening: Investigate the critical role of early detection in cancer survival rates and advocacy campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the importance of regular screenings and diagnostic tools.

Cancer Prevention and Education: Examine initiatives and programs that educate the public about risk factors, lifestyle choices, and preventive measures to reduce the incidence of cancer.

Support and Survivorship: Learn about the various support networks, survivorship programs, and advocacy efforts dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for cancer survivors and their families, addressing emotional, psychological, and practical needs.

Policy and Legislation: Delve into the advocacy work related to cancer-related policies, funding for research, and healthcare legislation, as well as the impact of these policies on cancer patients and research institutions.

Clinical Trials and Access: Explore how advocacy groups work to improve access to clinical trials, promote transparency in research, and advocate for equitable distribution of innovative cancer therapies.

Global Initiatives: Discover international collaborations and organizations dedicated to advancing cancer research and advocacy efforts on a global scale, addressing disparities in cancer care and research across different regions.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Investigate the effectiveness of public awareness campaigns in raising funds, fostering empathy, and reducing stigma associated with cancer, and how these campaigns drive support for research and patient care.

Survivor and Patient Advocacy: Highlight the role of individuals who have experienced cancer firsthand in advocating for policy changes, increased research funding, and improved patient care, and their impact on the cancer community.

Coping with Cancer

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Coping with Cancer

Introduction: Clinical Oncology is a specialized branch of medicine dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive care of individuals with cancer. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines and approaches, all aimed at improving the lives of cancer patients and advancing our understanding of this complex disease.

Subtopics in Clinical Oncology:

Cancer Diagnosis and Staging: Explore the techniques and methods used in clinical oncology for accurate cancer diagnosis, including imaging modalities, biopsies, and staging systems that help determine the extent of cancer spread.

Multidisciplinary Cancer Treatment: Investigate the collaborative approach to cancer care, involving medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists who work together to develop personalized treatment plans for patients.

Chemotherapy and Systemic Therapies: Examine the various chemotherapy regimens, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies employed in clinical oncology to treat cancer, with a focus on their mechanisms of action and side-effect management.

Radiation Oncology: Understand the principles of radiation therapy, its use in cancer treatment, and advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS).

Palliative Care and Supportive Oncology: Delve into the essential role of palliative care in improving the quality of life for cancer patients, managing symptoms, and addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs throughout their cancer journey.

Medical Oncology

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Medical Oncology

Introduction to Medical Oncology: Medical Oncology is a specialized branch of medicine dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer. This field plays a pivotal role in improving the lives of cancer patients through various treatment modalities and cutting-edge research. Within the realm of Medical Oncology, several key subtopics are essential for understanding and addressing the complexities of cancer care:

Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapies: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells, while targeted therapies focus on specific molecular abnormalities within cancer cells. Understanding these treatment options is crucial for medical oncologists to tailor therapies for individual patients.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy harnesses the body’s immune system to combat cancer. This groundbreaking approach has revolutionized cancer treatment by enhancing the body’s natural defenses against cancer cells.

Precision Medicine: Precision medicine in oncology involves customizing treatment plans based on a patient’s unique genetic and molecular profile. It allows for more personalized and effective cancer treatments, minimizing side effects.

Palliative Care: Palliative care in Medical Oncology is vital for improving the quality of life for cancer patients. It focuses on symptom management, pain relief, and emotional support to enhance patients’ overall well-being.

Clinical Trials and Research: Ongoing research and clinical trials are at the forefront of Medical Oncology. Investigating new treatments, therapies, and breakthroughs in cancer care is essential for improving patient outcomes and advancing the field.

These subtopics illustrate the multidimensional nature of Medical Oncology, where a comprehensive approach is taken to address the complexities of cancer treatment and patient care.