Research & teaching
Dr. Speer’s published research grew out of her fellowship in advanced GI and minimally invasive surgery in Portland, Oregon, and focuses on esophageal and stomach surgery and endoscopic treatment.
Each entry lists the authors in published order, the journal, and links to the permanent record. The short notes explain, in plain language, why each topic matters to patients.
First authorEsophageal surgery · Endoscopic therapy
When part of the esophagus is removed, the new connection in the neck can leak or narrow. This study reviewed the use of covered stents — flexible tubes placed from inside the esophagus with an endoscope — to manage those problems.
First authorNutrition support · Surgical outcomes
Feeding tubes placed into the small intestine are often used around major esophageal and stomach operations. This paper examined the complications and care burden these tubes can bring — information that helps surgeons decide when a tube is worth placing.
Co-authorGastroparesis · Stomach emptying
Gastroparesis means the stomach empties too slowly. This study evaluated laparoscopic pyloroplasty — widening the stomach’s outlet through small incisions — for patients whose symptoms had not responded to medical treatment.
Research abstracts accepted to the annual meeting of SAGES (the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons), as listed in the SAGES abstract archive. Surgical videos appear on the teaching page.
First author
Later published as a full journal article (listed above).
Co-author
Later published as a full journal article (listed above).
Co-author
Describes an anti-reflux repair technique used in patients who had previously undergone gastric bypass.
Co-author
Compared energy devices used to seal and divide tissue during laparoscopic surgery.
Appointments
Research explains what works for groups of patients. A consultation looks at what fits you — your symptoms, test results, and priorities.