Retroauricular thyroidectomy with a single-arm robotic surgical system: Preclinical cadaveric study

Area of Science:

• Robotic Surgery
• Surgical Innovation
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Evaluation of a novel flexible, single-arm robotic system.
• Focus on performing thyroidectomy via a retroauricular approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and efficiency of a new robotic system for retroauricular thyroidectomy.
• To detail the technical aspects and surgical steps involved.

Main Methods:

• Utilized four fresh cadavers for the study.
• Described the technical specifications of the robotic system.
• Provided a step-by-step surgical procedure guide.

Main Results:

• Successful retroauricular thyroidectomy was achieved using the single-port flexible robotic system.
• Optimal patient-side cart docking angle identified as 90° to the operating table.
• Collision-free instrument movement was possible with cannula tips 10-15 cm from the incision.
• Flexible instruments and endoscope enhanced dissection efficiency.

Conclusions:

• Pioneering preclinical evaluation of an innovative flexible, single-arm robotic surgical system.
• Demonstrated the system's potential for retroauricular thyroidectomy.