In an era marked by rapid advancements in medical technology, the field of head and neck surgery stands at a pivotal crossroads.
Dr. Mariano Sorrentino is a pioneering surgeon who is leading the way in minimally invasive procedures. He is at the forefront of modern surgical innovations and is a guiding light for the future of otolaryngology. His work reflects his dedication to transforming the field and improving patient outcomes.
“Being a surgeon is about much more than just being skilled,” says Dr. Sorrentino.
“You have to reassure the patient you will be with them every step of the way, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and in safe hands. The essence of medicine lies in constant evolution, and as surgeons, we must lead this charge.”
Dr. Sorrentino’s journey began in his native Argentina: “My mother was an artist, and my father an architect,” he recalls.
“But my path diverged early. At around eight or nine years old, I had surgery on my right ear. The impact of that surgeon on my life was profound – it sparked an admiration for the medical profession.”
Dr. Sorrentino’s career has been characterized by a relentless quest for innovation and a profound commitment to patient care: “After I completed my studies, I followed it up with a general surgery residency and a head and neck fellowship. It’s interesting that in Argentina, head and neck surgery can be a subspecialty for general surgeons, ENTs, or plastic surgeons. I was drawn to complex, challenging environments and found the adrenaline and precision in surgery captivating.”
Dr. Sorrentino’s expertise shines brightest in his approach to head and neck surgeries, traditionally among medicine’s most complex and invasive procedures.
By integrating cutting-edge technology with refined surgical techniques, he has significantly reduced recovery times and improved patient outcomes:
“Minimally invasive surgery utilizes advanced medical technology to perform complex procedures with smaller incisions, resulting in less trauma to the patient’s body,” he says.
“Besides the physical benefits, this surgical approach also involves a comprehensive shift in how healthcare professionals approach patient recovery and long-term health. It focuses on a patient-centered model emphasising faster recovery, reduced pain, and fewer complications.
“This technique ultimately leads to better outcomes and a higher quality of life for patients. It is a testament to the ever-evolving medical field and its commitment to advancing patient care.”
The surgeon says there have been significant strides, particularly in thyroid and parathyroid surger. These procedures, crucial for treating various disorders, have traditionally involved large neck incisions.
Endoscopic thyroidectomy, which uses small incisions and advanced camera technology is one area where there have been significant advancements: “This approach not only minimizes scarring but also reduces the risk of complications and speeds up recovery.”
In 2020, Dr. Sorrentino traveled to the US for a short stint at AdventHealth in Orlando, but then COVID struck. However, it gave him the opportunity to dive into research and learn transoral robotic surgery under his mentor, Dr. Scott Magnuson: “I helped develop innovative surgical techniques and educational materials that were later published,” he recalls.
“Robotic surgery allows us unparalleled precision, which is particularly crucial in the delicate anatomy of the head and neck.”
Dr. Sorrentino specializes in endocrine surgery, particularly thyroid and parathyroid surgeries. He has worked in underserved areas in Argentina, bringing much-needed surgical expertise to those communities.
“Advanced techniques in thyroid surgery, such as nerve monitoring and energy-based devices, have significantly reduced the risk of haemorrhage and nerve damage, leading to improved surgical outcomes,” he says.
“In parathyroid surgery, preoperative localization of adenomas using sestamibi scan and ultrasound is crucial for focused, less invasive interventions.”
A deep-seated commitment to patient-centric care is at the heart of Dr. Sorrentino’s practice. He emphasizes the importance of understanding each patient’s unique needs and tailoring treatments accordingly: “My goal is not just to treat the disease but to ensure that the patient’s quality of life is maintained or improved post-surgery,” he states.
“I pride myself on a strong patient-doctor relationship. Being warm, empathetic, and engaged with patients is essential to me. This approach doesn’t compromise my objectivity in surgery but rather improves patient outcomes.”
He adds: “My values in surgery center around integrity, empathy, responsibility, a continuous learning mindset, and humility. I never assume I know everything and always see room for improvement.”
Dr. Sorrentino’s influence extends far beyond his surgical achievements. He is a respected figure in the academic community and was appointed by the Argentinian Association of Surgery to craft the transoral robotic surgery segment for the annual Head and Neck Course.
He has also been appointed a Full Member of the Association (MAAC) which is a testament to his superior expertise.
Full Members are surgeons who have been trained and demonstrate in a verifiable manner that their professional training adheres to ethical and moral conditions in accordance with the respective regulations. The accolade means they are also accepted by the organisation’s Executive Committee.
Dr. Sorrentino has contributed to numerous journals including a publication in the Head and Neck Journal in 2020 on The Transoral Robotic Parapharyngeal Approach to the Submandibular Space.
He has also spoken at leading international conferences on trans-oral robotic surgery.
“Sharing knowledge is crucial. By educating others, we multiply the impact of our work,” he asserts.
Despite the successes, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Scepticism often surrounds the adoption of new techniques.
But Dr. Sorrentino acknowledges these hurdles but remains undeterred: “Change is always met with resistance, but consistent results and patient advocacy are powerful forces,” he says.
Dr. Uthman Alamoudi is a fellow of Royal College of Surgeons in Canada and the Head of Head and Neck Oncology and Reconstructive Surgery at AdventHealth in Celebration, Florida.
He has known Dr. Sorrentino since 2021 when they were both fellows at AdventHealth.
He says: “Dr. Sorrentino has reached a point of excellence in terms of his patient care. He is compassionate and caring and ensures all of his patients’ needs are met.
“He makes sure he is available 24 hours and will reach out directly to update them. As a result, his patients really love him, and they also love the fact he trys to answer all their questions and even those of their family members.”
Dr. Alamoudi adds he is continuously impressed by Dr. Sorrentino’s drive t get better and improve his surgery skills, by exploring new techniques and tricks, as well as surgical approaches.
“To say Dr. Sorrentino is dedicated to his craft is an understatement. He can also speak Spanish and this is a massive asset to not only patients but the hospital. He is much better than a medical translator because there’s a limit to what you can translate in terms of surgical procedures.
“He is also dual certified, and when there is a shortage of physicians, especially in the general surgery sector and head and neck surgery, there is a definite need for his expertise. There is no doubt he brings a lot of skills to the table and can definitely help bridge the gap in healthcare.”
Dr. Sorrentino is optimistic about the possibilities. He is involved in ongoing research on further refining minimally invasive techniques and exploring new frontiers in general surgery, such as vascular surgery and kidney transplant: “The future of head and neck surgery is incredibly promising. We are just scratching the surface of what’s possible,” he says.
“I want to be remembered as someone who never lost touch with his roots. I aim to mentor and guide young surgeons, sharing knowledge and opening opportunities.”
