Applications of Evolving Robotic Technology for Head and Neck Surgery

Area of Science:

• Robotic Surgery
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Robotic systems are increasingly utilized in head and neck surgery.
• Previous robotic procedures for transoral radical tonsillectomy, transoral supraglottic laryngectomy, and retroauricular thyroidectomy have been described.
• Advancements in robotic technology aim to improve surgical outcomes and capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility and advantages of a new robotic system for performing transoral radical tonsillectomy, transoral supraglottic laryngectomy, and retroauricular thyroidectomy.
• To assess surgical exposure, access, operative efficiency, and safety (robotic arm collisions) in a cadaver model.

Main Methods:

• Three established robotic head and neck procedures were executed on cadavers using the da Vinci Xi Surgical System.
• Objective metrics including surgical exposure, access, operative duration, and instances of robotic arm collisions were recorded.
• Specific procedures included transoral radical tonsillectomy, transoral supraglottic laryngectomy, and retroauricular thyroidectomy.

Main Results:

• The new robotic system facilitated successful execution of all three procedures, including dissection and preservation of critical nerves during tonsillectomy.
• Excellent surgical exposure and access were achieved without complications.
• Excluding setup and docking, operative times were 12.7, 14.3, and 21.2 minutes for the respective procedures.
• No robotic arm collisions occurred during the surgeries.

Conclusions:

• The updated robotic system enhances the ease of performing previously described robotic head and neck procedures.
• This evolving robotic technology holds potential for enabling surgeons to undertake more complex surgical interventions in head and neck oncology.
• The findings support the continued integration of advanced robotic platforms in surgical training and practice.