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Gasless transaxillary robot-assisted neck dissection: a preclinical feasibility study in four cadavers
Yoo Seob Shin1, Hyun Jun Hong, Yoon Woo Koh
1Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine, Ajou University, Suwon, Korea.
Yonsei Medical Journal
|December 22, 2011
Summary
Robot-assisted neck dissection via a gasless transaxillary approach is feasible for accessing neck levels II to V. While comprehensive dissection of all levels, including IIB and VA, presented challenges, vital structures were preserved, indicating promise for treating certain head and neck cancers.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Robotic Surgery
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Minimally invasive techniques are increasingly explored for head and neck cancer treatment.
- Transaxillary approaches offer potential advantages for neck dissection by avoiding neck incisions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of a gasless transaxillary robotic system for comprehensive neck dissection.
- To assess the accessibility of specific lymph node levels (I, IIB, VA) using this approach.
Main Methods:
- Robot-assisted neck dissection was performed on four cadavers.
- A gasless transaxillary approach utilized a 7-cm axillary incision and a 0.8-cm chest wall incision.
Main Results:
- Neck dissection from level II to V was successfully completed in all cadavers.
- Dissection of levels IIB and VA was challenging due to their location.
- Key vital structures were identified and preserved during the procedure.
Conclusions:
- Gasless, transaxillary robot-assisted neck dissection is a feasible technique.
- This approach shows promise for treating nodal metastasis in thyroid and selected head and neck cancers.
- Modifications may be necessary for comprehensive dissection of all neck levels.
