Robotic thyroidectomy: operative technique using a transaxillary endoscopic approach without CO2 insufflation

Abstract

In the last 20 years, there has been a significant increase in the diagnosis of benign and malignant thyroid tumors. With improved ultrasound technology and better access to sonographic imaging, many tumors are identified at earlier stages. Consequently, there has been an evolution in surgical technique, moving toward minimally invasive approaches. This article describes the technique of robotic thyroidectomy via transaxillary endoscopic approach without CO(2) insufflation.