Our Summary

Throughout the 21st century, robots have been used to help with various types of mouth surgeries. These robots have been used to treat both cancerous tumors and non-cancerous diseases in the head and neck. When robots are used, the surgeries often have less blood loss, fewer complications, quicker recoveries, and better cosmetic results than traditional surgeries. However, the use of robots in these types of surgeries is still being tested. We still need to understand the long-term effects these surgeries have on patient recovery, cancer control, and overall quality of life. More research is needed before we can say for sure that this is the best way to treat these diseases. Regardless, the use of robots in mouth surgery is likely to become more common. This article looks at how robots are currently being used in head and neck surgeries and discusses the pros and cons of this technology.

FAQs

  1. What are the benefits of using robotic surgery in maxillofacial procedures?
  2. Is robotic surgery for head and neck diseases a standard treatment?
  3. What are the current applications and limitations of robotic surgery in the head and neck region?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This may include guidelines on medications, diet, activity restrictions, and wound care. It is important to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, attending all follow-up appointments is crucial for monitoring healing and addressing any complications that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from maxillofacial surgery include those with:

  1. Oral cancer: Patients with head and neck tumors may require maxillofacial surgery to remove the cancerous tissue and reconstruct the affected area.

  2. Facial trauma: Patients who have suffered facial injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, may require maxillofacial surgery to repair and restore the function and appearance of the face.

  3. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Patients with TMJ disorders, such as pain, clicking, or limited movement of the jaw, may benefit from maxillofacial surgery to correct the underlying issue.

  4. Corrective jaw surgery: Patients with misaligned jaws or facial asymmetry may undergo maxillofacial surgery to improve their bite, facial aesthetics, and overall function.

  5. Sleep apnea: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea may undergo maxillofacial surgery to reposition the jaw and open the airway to improve breathing during sleep.

  6. Cleft lip and palate: Patients born with cleft lip and/or palate may require maxillofacial surgery to repair the defect and improve speech, feeding, and overall function.

  7. Orthognathic surgery: Patients with skeletal discrepancies, such as a protruding or retruded jaw, may undergo maxillofacial surgery to reposition the jaws and improve facial harmony and function.

Timeline

Before maxillofacial surgery:

  • Patient consults with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and surgical plan
  • Pre-operative evaluations and tests are conducted to assess the patient’s overall health and suitability for surgery
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative counseling to understand the procedure, potential risks, and post-operative care
  • Surgery date is scheduled and patient prepares for the procedure by following specific instructions provided by the surgical team

After maxillofacial surgery:

  • Patient is closely monitored in the recovery room immediately after surgery
  • Pain management and antibiotics are administered to control discomfort and prevent infection
  • Patient may experience swelling, bruising, and difficulty eating or speaking in the days following surgery
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing progress and remove any sutures or drains
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy or speech therapy to regain function and mobility in the affected area
  • Long-term follow-up is necessary to assess the success of the surgery and address any complications or concerns that may arise

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of maxillofacial surgery procedure do you recommend for my condition?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?

  3. How long is the recovery period for this type of surgery?

  4. Will I need to follow any special post-operative care instructions?

  5. What are the expected outcomes and success rates for this type of surgery?

  6. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?

  7. How many times have you performed this type of surgery, and what is your success rate?

  8. Will I need to undergo any additional tests or evaluations before the surgery?

  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?

  10. What type of follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Liu HH, Li LJ, Shi B, Xu CW, Luo E. Journal: Int J Oral Sci. 2017 Jun;9(2):63-73. doi: 10.1038/ijos.2017.24. PMID: 28660906