In an interview with touchONCOLOGY, Prof. Rau reflects on her professional journey, from her early training inspired by the transformative power of surgery, to her pioneering work in cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and HIPEC. She credits her mentors, including Dr. Paul Sugarbaker and leading European surgical oncologists, for shaping her path, and highlights her ongoing commitment to mentoring the next generation of cancer surgeons.
“Even today, my greatest motivation comes from the patients we serve and the next generation we train”, – says prof. Rau.
Her work has impacted advancing surgical oncology education through ESSO, including the development of the CRS & HIPEC course, and in leading important trials such as GASTRIPEC for gastric cancer. Beyond her clinical and academic achievements, she continues to advocate for globally connected, patient-centered cancer care.
Prof. Rau will formally receive the ESSO Medal during the ESSO 44 Congress in Gothenburg this October.