[Role of Robotic Surgery in ENT]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Robotics

Background:

• Surgical robots have been utilized in Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) surgery since the early 21st century.
• They primarily assist in minimally invasive transoral procedures, including head and neck tumor treatment and snoring surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current applications and limitations of surgical robots in the ENT environment.
• To discuss the importance of oncological outcomes, functional preservation, economic factors, and future directions.
• To highlight the need for enhanced collaboration and system development.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and data on robotic applications in ENT surgery.
• Analysis of current operational areas and case numbers for robotic systems.
• Discussion of potential strategies for future development and wider adoption.

Main Results:

• Current robotic applications in ENT are limited in scope.
• A large body of data exists regarding oncological results, functional maintenance, and economics.
• There is a recognized need for national and international center connectivity to improve training, data exchange, and system advancement.

Conclusions:

• Robotic surgery in ENT is a valuable adjunct to established procedures.
• Expanding applications requires addressing limitations in current systems.
• The development of smaller, agile, ENT-specific robotic equipment is proposed for future widespread use.