Carissa Thomas, MD, PhD, FACS
Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery
Board Certified
Clinical Interest for Patients
Microvascular reconstruction of head and neck defects from cancer or trauma. Management of osteoradionecrosis and chronic wounds of the head and neck including chronic scalp wounds. Treatment of oral cavity (mouth), pharynx (throat), laryngeal (voice box), and salivary gland cancers. Treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.
Credentials
Fellow, American College of Surgeons Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Philosphy
Specialty
Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery
Scheduling Phone Number
720-848-2820
Gender
Female
Languages
English
Hospital Affiliation
University of Colorado Hospital, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver Health Medical Center
UCHealth Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic - Anschutz Medical Campus
Phone: 720-848-2820 720-848-2820
Provider Information
Specialties
- Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (2019,2024)
Department
Associate Professor, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Professional Memberships
AHNS Reconstructive Head & Neck Surgery Section Research Committee, Co-chair American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Member American Academy of Otolaryngology Microvascular Committee, Member American College of Surgeons, Fellow American Head & Neck Society, Member Gold Humanism Honor Society, Member NRG Oncology Head and Neck Cancer General Committee, Member Phi Beta Kappa (National Academic Honor Society), Member
Research and Grants
Research Interests for Patients
My research focuses on understanding ways in which an altered oral cavity microbiome (dysbiosis) promotes malignant transformation in head and neck cancer, specifically squamous cell carcinoma. Currently we are investigating the oral microbiome as a biomarker of disease and predictor of prognosis with the goal of altering the microbiome to improve treatment response and prevent metastases and recurrence of head and neck cancer. I am also investigating ways the oral microbiome is related to cancer pain, nutrition, and surgical outcomes following major head and neck cancer surgery.
Education and Training
Medical Schools
MD, Baylor College of Medicine (2013)
Undergraduate Schools
BA, Luther College (IA) (2004)
Graduate Schools
PhD, Baylor College Of Medicine (2011)
Residency Program
University of Colorado (2018)
Fellowships
University of Toronto (2019)
Information for referring providers
Referral Contact Phone
720-848-2820
Referral Contact Fax
720-848-2831