First case of combined robot-assisted thymectomy and transaxillary thyroidectomy: technique and robot-docking...

Area of Science:

• Minimally invasive surgery
• Surgical oncology
• Thoracic surgery

Background:

• Robot-assisted thymectomy and total transaxillary thyroidectomy are established treatments for thymic and thyroid diseases, respectively.
• Current surgical options for combined thymic and thyroid pathologies often involve separate procedures, potentially increasing patient morbidity and recovery time.

Observation:

• The study details the first reported case of a combined robot-assisted thymectomy and total transaxillary thyroidectomy.
• The procedure involved a single supine position with specific arm elevation for axillary access, followed by a 30° counter-clockwise robot rotation for the second surgical phase.

Findings:

• A combined robot-assisted approach for thymectomy and transaxillary thyroidectomy was successfully performed in a single patient.
• The technique demonstrated optimization of disposable surgical instruments.
• The combined procedure resulted in reduced hospitalization and improved postoperative recovery for the patient.

Implications:

• This combined robot-assisted technique offers a potentially more efficient and less invasive treatment strategy for patients requiring resection of both the thymus and thyroid.
• Further research and case studies are warranted to validate the broader applicability and long-term outcomes of this combined surgical approach.
• The findings suggest a potential paradigm shift in managing complex thoracic and endocrine surgical conditions requiring simultaneous organ resection.