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Modified Approach for Robotic Retroauricular Thyroidectomy: Preclinical Simulation and a Surgical Case
Ahmad Saeed1, Nuha Alsaleh1, Thomas Moulthrop1
1Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA.
Surgical Innovation
|November 14, 2014
Summary
This study modified a robotic retroauricular approach for thyroid surgery, creating a wider workspace. The modified technique proved safe and feasible in cadavers and a single patient, enabling successful robotic thyroid lobectomy.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Innovation
- Robotic Surgery
- Endocrine Surgery
Background:
- A novel remote access retroauricular robotic technique for thyroid lobectomy was recently introduced.
- This study aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of modifying this technique.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the feasibility and safety of a modified retroauricular robotic approach for thyroid lobectomy.
- To evaluate the creation of a wider working space using this modified technique.
Main Methods:
- A modified retroauricular approach was developed, creating a working space between the sternocleidomastoid muscle heads.
- The technique was initially tested in two human cadavers.
- Robotic-assisted thyroid lobectomy was subsequently performed in one patient using the modified approach.
Main Results:
- Successful robotic-assisted hemithyroidectomy was achieved in two cadavers and one patient.
- The patient experienced no complications and was discharged on the same day of surgery.
Conclusions:
- The modified retroauricular approach, utilizing a workspace between sternocleidomastoid muscle heads, is safe and feasible.
- This modification provides an enhanced working space for robotic thyroid surgery.
