Technical Feasibility and Setup Optimization of the HUGO RAS System for Robotic-Assisted Transaxillary Thyroidectomy:
Byung-Chang Kim1, Young-Min Lee1, Sookyung Kim1
1Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Asian Journal of Endoscopic Surgery
|July 27, 2026
Summary
This study shows the HUGO Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) system is feasible for transaxillary thyroidectomy in pigs. This robotic approach could be used in future human thyroid surgery.
Area of Science:
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Surgical Robotics
- Endocrine Surgery
Background:
- Robotic thyroidectomy is a minimally invasive surgical option.
- Existing robotic platforms have demonstrated feasibility and safety for this procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of the HUGO Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) system for thyroidectomy.
- To assess the transaxillary approach using the HUGO RAS system in a preclinical model.
Main Methods:
- The HUGO RAS system was used for thyroidectomy in a porcine model.
- The surgical approach was transaxillary.
- Procedural steps included flap creation and thyroid gland dissection.
Main Results:
- All surgical steps were completed successfully without technical issues.
- The recurrent laryngeal nerve was identified and preserved during the procedure.
Conclusions:
- The HUGO RAS system is technically feasible for thyroidectomy.
- This preclinical study supports the potential clinical translation of the HUGO RAS system for human thyroid surgery.
