Surgeons have successfully performed the first FDA-approved robot-assisted microsurgical head and neck cancer reconstructive procedure in the US.
The breakthrough, which took place at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles, underscores the institution’s leadership in advancing microsurgical precision and expanding treatment options for complex reconstructions.
Victor Chien, a plastic surgeon in the Jim and Eleanor Randall Department of Surgery at Cedars-Sinai, led the procedure. He used the Symani Surgical System, which allowed for unprecedented control and accuracy in microvascular surgery, particularly in anastomosing blood vessels finer than human hair.
‘The surgery demonstrates the microsurgical platform’s remarkable ability in lending greater precision and care when handling tissue in small and diseased vessels. By removing the limitations that come with natural tremor in a human hand, the robot helped us efficiently execute this procedure.’
Microsurgery, known for its demanding dexterity and accuracy requirements, is crucial for restoring vascular continuity and fluid pathways in complex anatomical regions.
Integrating robotic technology enhances these surgical procedures by refining motion control, minimising tremors and providing improved 3D visualisation, which is essential for intricate dissections and anastomoses.
‘Enlisting the technology potentially minimises scarring and tissue damage, and I expect the added precision will ultimately increase operative efficiency,’ Victor Chien added.
The implications of the Symani Surgical System extend well beyond head and neck reconstruction. Its capabilities are also instrumental in a variety of complex procedures, including autologous breast reconstruction following mastectomy, reconstructive surgeries for lower extremities after trauma or cancer removal, and lymphovenous bypass surgery for patients suffering from lymphedema.
Curtis L Cetrulo Jr, vice chair of Research in the Jim and Eleanor Randall Department of Surgery and director of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Cedars-Sinai, said: ‘We are the first programme in the western US to have microsurgical robotic capabilities and to perform a wide variety of successful cases using the device. We are building a robust corps of highly skilled surgeons and fellows trained in robot-assisted microsurgical technique, and we are excited to provide these innovative treatment options to our patients.’
