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Panel Presentations

Head and Neck Surgery

Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer: Assessing Its Readiness for Prime Time

Monday, October 13, 2025
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM EDT
Location: 128
Disclosure(s):
John D. Cramer, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Joseph Zenga, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This panel will critically evaluate the readiness of neoadjuvant immunotherapy for adoption in the management of melanoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. A panel of experts will review the current evidence, including results from recent clinical trials, and discuss the potential benefits, challenges, and implications of incorporating neoadjuvant immunotherapy into standard practice.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Critically appraise the latest clinical data on the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant immunotherapy in head and neck cancer and cutaneous malignancies.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Explore the influence of neoadjuvant immunotherapy on long-term survival, recurrence rates, and patient-reported outcomes such as quality of life.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Identify key barriers and considerations for implementing neoadjuvant immunotherapy into clinical workflows, including patient selection, surgical timing, and multidisciplinary coordination.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Neoadjuvant immunotherapy is transforming oncology, with data supporting its use in melanoma, cSCC, and HNSCC. Phase III trials show improved outcomes, but questions on patient selection, timing, and feasibility remain. This panel offers key insights.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement :

    Moderator(s)

  • John D. Cramer, MD

    Associate Professor
    Wayne State University School of Medicine
    Detroit, MI, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

    • Panelist(s)

  • KW

    Katherine C. Wai, MD

    Assistant Professor
    UCSF School of Medicine
    San Francisco , California, United States

    Disclosure information not submitted.

  • Jennifer H. Gross, MD

    Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology
    Emory University
    Atlanta, GA, United States

    Disclosure information not submitted.