Robotic-assisted neck dissection through a pre- and post-auricular hairline incision: preclinical study

The introduction of robotics in head and neck surgery has facilitated access to the contents of the neck region using less cosmetically obtrusive incisions. Robotic systems offer a three-dimensional viewing, tremor filtration, and articulating distal arms that mimic natural hand and wrist movements. We hypothesized that these characteristics would allow for the performance of a robotic-assisted selective and comprehensive neck dissection via combined pre- and post-auricular incisions. We were able to demonstrate adequate access in a cadaver, using a combination of conventional, endoscopic, and robotic surgical manipulation. Thus preclinical cadaver studies support the ability to perform robotic-assisted neck dissection via combined pre- and post-auricular incisions.