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Published on: September 29, 2018
Robot-assisted free flap in head and neck reconstruction
Han Gyeol Song1, In Sik Yun, Won Jai Lee
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Human Tissue Restoration, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Archives of Plastic Surgery
|July 31, 2013
Summary
Robot-assisted free-flap reconstruction is a novel and effective method for oropharyngeal defects. This advanced technique allows for precise reconstruction without traditional surgical trauma, demonstrating its clinical applicability.
Area of Science:
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Robotic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Robotic surgery enables safe oropharyngeal tumor removal without extensive incisions.
- Oropharyngeal reconstruction using robots is emerging for defects after robotic tumor excision.
- This study highlights the necessity and application of robotic reconstruction in head and neck surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the experience with robotic free-flap reconstruction for head and neck defects.
- To demonstrate the clinical applicability and necessity of robotic reconstruction in the oropharynx.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective investigation of 5 head and neck cancer patients undergoing robotic ablation and free-flap reconstruction.
- Data collected included patient demographics, tumor details, reconstruction methods, flap specifics, and operative time.
- Robotic instruments were used for flap insetting and microanastomosis.
Main Results:
- Five free-flap reconstructions were performed (4 radial forearm, 1 anterolateral thigh).
- Recipient vessels included the superior thyroid artery and facial artery; average pedicle length was 8.8 cm.
- No complications such as flap necrosis or wound dehiscence were observed; total operative time averaged 1,041 minutes.
Conclusions:
- Robot-assisted free-flap reconstruction is clinically applicable for oropharyngeal defects.
- Robots facilitate deep oropharyngeal flap insetting, avoiding mandibulotomy.
- This technique represents an advanced, potentially substitutive method for current surgical approaches.