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Transoral Robotic Surgery for Head and Neck Cancer: Advances and Residual Knowledge Gaps
Mariam H Mella1, Emilien Chabrillac2, Agnès Dupret-Bories1,2
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Toulouse University Hospital-Larrey Hospital, 24 Chemin de Pouvourville, CEDEX 9, 31059 Toulouse, France.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|March 29, 2023
Summary
Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) offers enhanced visualization and dexterity for head and neck cancer treatment. Further evidence-based research is needed to ensure TORS safety and oncological outcomes match conventional methods.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Robotic Surgery
Background:
- Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) gained FDA approval in 2009 for oral cavity, oropharynx, and larynx malignancies.
- TORS utilizes wristed instruments and 3D visualization, improving surgical access and comfort.
- Its application is expanding for head and neck cancers, including larynx, hypopharynx, and parapharyngeal space tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current evidence-based role of TORS in head and neck cancer.
- To identify knowledge gaps and areas for future research in TORS for head and neck oncology.
Main Methods:
- This study is a narrative review.
- It focuses on an evidence-based assessment of TORS in head and neck cancer.
Main Results:
- TORS popularity is increasing due to its technological advantages.
- Expansion of TORS indications requires cautious evaluation against conventional approaches.
- High-level evidence is crucial for validating safety and oncological outcomes.
Conclusions:
- TORS is a promising minimally invasive approach for head and neck cancer.
- Continued research is necessary to establish TORS as a comparable alternative to traditional surgery.
- Addressing knowledge gaps will guide the safe and effective integration of TORS into surgical oncology.
