Past, Present, and Future of Robotic Surgery

Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2020 Dec;53(6):935-941. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2020.07.005. Epub 2020 Aug 21.

Abstract

Robotic-assisted surgery embodies the latest in technological advancement and is being applied to operative management of patients. The current concept of robotic surgery involves performance of surgical procedures by using small wristed instruments attached to a robotic arm. Its extension to otolaryngology is only natural, because it allows for precise surgery through anatomic orifices, often allowing for preservation of critical anatomic structures and functions. Transoral robotic surgery is an effective and safe tool for head and neck surgeons. Its speed of recent growth and the imminent addition of innovative technology could signal the advent of a new era in surgery.

Keywords: History of robotic surgery; Robotic surgery; TORS; Transoral robotic surgery.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Disease Management
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, 21st Century
  • Humans
  • Otolaryngology / methods*
  • Otolaryngology / trends*
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures / history
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures / trends*
  • Robotics / methods
  • Robotics / trends
  • Treatment Outcome