A New Area of Neurosurgery: First Robotic Neurosurgery Clinical Case Series

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Robotic Surgery
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Robotic surgery systems are underutilized in neurosurgery despite widespread use in other fields.
• The da Vinci Xi surgical robot was evaluated for neurosurgical applications.
• Limited adoption of robotic systems in neurosurgery necessitates experience sharing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To share experience with the da Vinci Xi surgical robot in neurosurgical practice.
• To assess the feasibility and outcomes of robotic neurosurgery.
• To highlight the potential advantages of robotic systems in specific neurosurgical procedures.

Main Methods:

• A senior surgeon completed robotic surgery and simulation training.
• Five patients underwent robotic surgery for various pathologies including clivus chordoma, odontoid metastatic mass, peroneal neuropathy, and arachnoid cyst.
• Clinical data and follow-up outcomes were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The study included 5 patients (2 female, 3 male; mean age 43 years) with diverse pathologies.
• No intraoperative or postoperative neurological deficits or complications were observed.
• All patients achieved favorable outcomes following robotic surgery.

Conclusions:

• Robotic systems offer advantages for specific neurosurgical procedures like transoral resection and intracranial cyst fenestration.
• Effective integration of robotic systems into routine neurosurgical practice requires practical training.
• This case series highlights the feasibility of robotic neurosurgery and the need for further technological evaluation.