DaVinci robot-assisted transcervical excision of a parapharyngeal space tumor

Neoplastic processes in the parapharyngeal space represent less than 1% of all head and neck tumors. Due to the complexity, deep location and surrounding vital structures of the parapharyngeal space, resection of tumors from this area can prove challenging. There are a number of surgical approaches traditionally used to access the parapharyngeal space; the choice is dictated by the size of the tumor, its location, its relationship to the great vessels, and suspicion of malignancy. We describe our innovative surgical technique employing DaVinci robot-assisted transcervical excision of a parapharyngeal space tumor. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of this surgical technique.