A Case of Transoral Robotic Radical Lateral Oropharyngectomy in Tonsilar Cancer / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

Transoral robotic system (TORS) is performed by positioning at least 3 robotic arms through the oral cavity that are operated by the surgeon bimanually. The elaborate movements of the operating tools and high resolution endoscopic images provided by the robot can overcome the shortcomings of transoral radical lateral oropharyngectomy, thus enabling wide and effective surgery. Also, it preserves postoperative functions and improves the quality of life, thereby decreasing postoperative morbidity. In this study, the possibility of TORS as a novel surgical method in managing tonsillar carcinoma has been identified. However, a long term observation regardingpostoperative swallowing, phonation, quality of life and oncologic safety in using TORS is further required.