Our Summary

This research paper discusses the use of robotic surgery for removing tumors in children. Even though robotic surgery is becoming more popular in adult cancer surgery and general pediatric surgery, it’s not widely accepted for treating tumors in children. The robotic method has many benefits over traditional surgery, but there’s not much information or guidelines about which patients should have it, when it should be used, and what the long-term effects are. Because of this lack of information, many doctors are hesitant to use robotic surgery for pediatric tumors. The paper looks at the pros and cons, as well as existing guidelines and information about using robotic surgery in children with cancer.

FAQs

  1. What are the advantages of using robotic-assisted resections for pediatric tumors?
  2. What has caused controversy around the utilization of robotic-assisted resections for pediatric tumors?
  3. What are the limitations and existing guidelines regarding the use of robotics in pediatric surgical oncology?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing oncologic surgery to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, such as fasting before surgery and avoiding certain medications. They may also advise the patient to communicate openly with their healthcare team about any concerns or questions they may have leading up to the surgery. It is important for the patient to have a clear understanding of the procedure, potential risks, and expected recovery process. Additionally, the doctor may recommend that the patient maintain a healthy lifestyle before and after surgery to optimize their overall health and aid in the healing process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for oncologic surgery include those with solid tumors, such as sarcomas, neuroblastomas, and Wilms tumors, as well as those with certain types of leukemia and lymphoma. The decision to undergo surgery is typically made by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists. The goal of surgery in these patients is to remove the tumor and any surrounding tissue that may contain cancer cells, in order to improve the chances of cure and reduce the risk of recurrence. The use of robotic-assisted resections in pediatric tumors is still evolving, with ongoing research and guidelines being developed to help determine the best candidates for this approach.

Timeline

  • Pre-surgery consultation and evaluation: The patient meets with their surgical oncologist to discuss the recommended surgical procedure, potential risks and benefits, and to undergo pre-operative testing and evaluation.

  • Surgery day: The patient undergoes the robotic-assisted resection of their tumor, during which the surgeon uses the robotic platform to perform precise, minimally invasive surgery.

  • Post-operative recovery: The patient is monitored closely in the hospital for any complications or side effects from the surgery. Pain management, wound care, and physical therapy may be provided to aid in the recovery process.

  • Follow-up appointments: The patient continues to see their surgical oncologist for follow-up appointments to monitor their progress, evaluate the effectiveness of the surgery, and discuss any further treatment options or recommendations.

  • Long-term monitoring: The patient may undergo regular imaging scans and blood tests to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence or complications from the surgery. Ongoing follow-up care is essential for long-term oncologic outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential benefits of robotic-assisted surgery for my specific type of cancer?
  2. Are there any specific risks or limitations associated with robotic surgery compared to traditional surgical techniques for my condition?
  3. How experienced is the surgical team with performing robotic-assisted resections for pediatric tumors?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care following robotic surgery?
  5. Will robotic surgery impact my long-term oncologic outcomes or survival rates?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options or surgical techniques that I should consider for my cancer?
  7. What is the cost and insurance coverage for robotic-assisted surgery for pediatric tumors?
  8. Are there any specific pre-operative preparations or tests that I should be aware of before undergoing robotic surgery?
  9. What is the expected timeline for scheduling and performing robotic-assisted resection for my cancer?
  10. What support services or resources are available to me and my family before, during, and after robotic surgery for pediatric tumors?

Reference

Authors: Jacobson JC, Scrushy MG, Gillory LA, Pandya SR. Journal: Semin Pediatr Surg. 2023 Feb;32(1):151263. doi: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2023.151263. Epub 2023 Jan 26. PMID: 36753917