Robotically assisted selective neck dissection in parotid gland cancer: preliminary report

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Robotic Surgery
• Head and Neck Cancer

Background:

• Robot-assisted neck dissection (ND) has shown feasibility in head and neck cancer.
• Parotid gland cancers present unique surgical challenges.
• Minimally invasive approaches are desirable for improved cosmesis and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of robot-assisted selective neck dissection (SND) via a modified facelift (MFL) approach for parotid gland cancer.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of this novel surgical technique.

Main Methods:

• A case series of five patients with parotid gland cancer undergoing primary tumor resection with robotic SND I-III via MFL.
• Gasless robotic system utilized for the modified facelift approach.

Main Results:

• Robot-assisted SND I-III combined with primary tumor resection was successfully performed in all five patients.
• No significant intraoperative complications, additional incisions, or conversion to open surgery were required.
• Drainage, hospital stay, lymph node yield, and complication rates were acceptable.
• Excellent postoperative cosmetic results with scars hidden by the auricle and hair.

Conclusions:

• Robot-assisted surgery via a modified facelift approach is a feasible and effective method for selected parotid gland cancer cases.
• This technique provides excellent cosmetic results.
• It represents a valuable minimally invasive option in the surgical armamentarium for parotid gland cancer.