Current Status of Robotic Surgery in the Head and Neck

Session Description

Previously, transoral robotic surgery (TORS) has been performed using a machine designed for procedures performed laparoscopically. Multiple arms on the robotic patient side cart are used for multiple ports in the patient. In 2009, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the DaVinci robot for TORS. This procedure utilizes 3 of the 4 robotic arms and places the 3 arms into a single orifice site (mouth). While the machine is not strictly designed for placing multiple arms into a single site, TORS procedures have been successfully performed for the past 10 years. Today, a single port DaVinci robotic system (Sp) has been made which delivers multiple instruments and a camera through one arm. This design overcomes the limitations of previous platforms using multiple arms. A clinical trial in the US was performed to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of the use of the Sp system for TORS. In March 2019, the FDA approved the use of the Sp system for TORS. Tomorrow, the surgical robot will evolve to better help the surgeon perform operations. Advanced technology will assist the surgeon with improved visualization of the anatomy, identification of tumor margins, and provide haptic feedback. Artificial intelligence (AI) will direct the surgeon away from danger zones, suggest next steps for procedures, and provide real-time information to operating room personnel. Robot autonomy will provide consistent duplication of tasks that may avoid complications.