[The role of transoral robotic surgery in head and neck cancer]

Since 2000 and the commercialisation of the Da Vinci robotic system, indications for robotic surgery are rapidly increasing. Recent publications proved superior functional outcomes with equal oncologic safety in comparison to conventional open surgery. Its field of application may extend to the nasopharynx and skull base surgery. The preliminary results are encouraging. This article reviews the current literature on the role of transoral robotic surgery in head and neck cancer.