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Transoral surgery using a novel single-port flexible endoscope system

  • Head and Neck
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European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

The transoral resection of pharyngeal and laryngeal tumors is challenging due to their location in a narrow anatomic space. In this study, the visualization and resection in the area of the pharynx and larynx using a novel computer-assisted flexible endoscopic robotic system are evaluated. The Medrobotics® Flex® System (Medrobotics Corp., Raynham, MA, USA) is an operator-controlled flexible endoscope robotic system that includes a flexible endoscope and computer-assisted controllers, with two accessory channels for the use of compatible, 3.5 mm flexible instruments. In six human cadavers, four basic procedures (tonsillectomy, base of tongue resection, hemi-epiglottectomy and resection of false vocal cords) were performed bilaterally by two surgeons. Success in appropriate visualization of the target structure and resection was documented. The driving and resection time was determined for each procedure. An appropriate exposure and resection within the pharynx and larynx was achieved in all cases. Both surgeons experienced a learning curve in driving the system and performing the procedures. The Medrobotics Flex® system is a promising tool for transoral resections within the pharynx and larynx. Good visualization, access, and resectability are hereby clear advantages of the system compared to commonly used systems.

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Conflict of interest

M.M’s travel expenses for performing the three-day cadaver study were financed by Medrobotics® Corporation.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany

    Magis Mandapathil

  2. Department of Otolaryngology, Head/Neck and Facial Plastic Surgery, Kliniken Leipziger Land, Borna, Germany

    Thomas Wilhelm

  3. Department of Biometrics, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany

    Brandon Greene

Authors
  1. Magis Mandapathil
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  2. Brandon Greene
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  3. Thomas Wilhelm
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Correspondence to Magis Mandapathil.

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Mandapathil, M., Greene, B. & Wilhelm, T. Transoral surgery using a novel single-port flexible endoscope system. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 272, 2451–2456 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-014-3177-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-014-3177-1

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