Transaxillary single-incision robotic neck dissection for metastatic thyroid cancer

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Robotic Surgery

Background:

• Neck dissection (ND) is a complex procedure in head and neck oncology.
• Traditional ND results in significant cervical scarring and post-operative discomfort.
• Endoscopic techniques for ND have faced limitations in complexity and instrumentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel, less invasive robotic neck dissection (ND) procedure.
• To present the modified transaxillary single-incision robotic ND technique.
• To evaluate its feasibility for managing metastatic thyroid cancer.

Main Methods:

• Utilized surgical robotics for enhanced precision in endoscopic neck dissection.
• Modified a previously described gasless transaxillary robotic approach.
• Performed transaxillary single-incision robotic ND for metastatic thyroid cancer.

Main Results:

• Robotic ND enables complete, compartment-oriented lymph node dissection.
• The transaxillary single-incision approach offers a less invasive alternative.
• Early outcomes indicate technical feasibility and satisfactory results without fatal complications.

Conclusions:

• The transaxillary single-incision robotic ND is a feasible and less invasive option.
• Robotic surgery enhances precision for complex head and neck procedures.
• This technique holds promise for managing metastatic thyroid cancer with improved patient outcomes.