Improved Glottic Exposure for Robotic Microlaryngeal Surgery: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Robotic Surgery

Background:

• Robotic surgery offers tremor reduction and enhanced dexterity, becoming standard for many procedures.
• Glottic access via robotic surgery has been limited by retractor systems, hindering exposure and instrument space.
• Existing retractors provide inadequate base of tongue and oral commissure retraction for glottic visualization.

Observation:

• A case series evaluated the Modular Oral Retractor (MOR) system for robotic glottic surgery.
• The MOR system was used with the da Vinci robotic platform.
• This system aims to overcome previous limitations in glottic exposure and instrument maneuverability.

Findings:

• The MOR system successfully facilitated access to the glottic larynx using da Vinci instrumentation.
• It provided improved exposure of the anterior commissure.
• The system created adequate space for robotic instrument manipulation.

Implications:

• The MOR system potentially enhances the feasibility of robotic microlaryngeal surgery for surgeons.
• This innovation could expand the application of robotic technology within otolaryngology.
• Improved glottic access may lead to better patient outcomes in laryngeal procedures.