Robot-Assisted Reconstruction in Head and Neck Surgical Oncology: The Evolving Role of the Reconstructive Microsurgeon

ORL J Otorhinolaryngol Relat Spec. 2018;80(3-4):178-185. doi: 10.1159/000492787. Epub 2018 Nov 5.

Abstract

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is gaining more widespread use among head and neck surgical procedures. As experience grows with this technique, so do the indications of when and in which patients it can be used. Already established in the treatment of small oral cavity tumours, it is expanding into larger multi-site resections and resections, such as through-and-through-into-the-neck defects, that will require reconstruction. With robot-assisted surgery advancing, so robot-assisted reconstruction (RAR) is evolving. In this paper, we discuss the evolving role of reconstruction in post-TORS defects as well as the role of RAR in today's practice.

Keywords: Head and neck surgery; Reconstructive microsurgery; Robotics.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anastomosis, Surgical / methods
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Microsurgery / methods
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures / instrumentation
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Surgical Flaps