Our Summary

This article discusses the potential issues that can arise after a specific type of surgery in the head and neck area performed using a robot. This type of surgery, known as transoral robotic surgery, is generally very safe. However, it’s important for doctors to be aware of the potential risks, which can include serious bleeding, difficulty swallowing, and smaller problems such as injuries to nerves, the lining of the mouth, teeth, and eyes. The article also touches on ways to prevent and handle these common issues.

FAQs

  1. What are the major and minor complications following transoral robotic surgery?
  2. What are the inherent risks associated with transoral robotic surgery?
  3. What are the prevention and management strategies for common complications after transoral robotic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about robotic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting guidelines and medication protocols. This can help reduce the risk of complications during and after the procedure. Additionally, patients should communicate openly with their healthcare team about any concerns or questions they may have before, during, and after the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended robotic surgery are those who require surgery in the head and neck region. This may include individuals with tumors or growths in the throat, tongue, or tonsils, as well as those with obstructive sleep apnea or other conditions that affect the airway. Robotic surgery may also be recommended for patients who have not responded well to other treatments or who are not good candidates for traditional surgery due to factors such as age or overall health. Ultimately, the decision to undergo robotic surgery should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can evaluate the individual’s specific medical needs and determine the most appropriate treatment option.

Timeline

Before robotic surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes initial consultation with surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if they are a candidate for robotic surgery.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative testing to ensure they are in good health for surgery.
  3. Patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting instructions and medication adjustments.
  4. On the day of surgery, patient is taken to the operating room and prepared for the procedure.

After robotic surgery:

  1. Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room for any immediate postoperative complications.
  2. Patient may experience some pain and discomfort in the days following surgery, which can be managed with pain medication.
  3. Patient may have restrictions on activities and diet for a period of time following surgery to aid in healing.
  4. Patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress and address any concerns.
  5. Patient may undergo additional treatments or therapies as needed to aid in recovery and improve outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with robotic surgery in my specific case?
  2. How experienced are you and your team in performing robotic surgeries for my condition?
  3. What measures are in place to prevent complications during and after the surgery?
  4. How will my recovery process be different with robotic surgery compared to traditional surgery?
  5. What are the long-term effects or potential complications I should be aware of after the surgery?
  6. Are there any specific instructions or precautions I need to follow post-operatively to minimize the risk of complications?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments and monitoring after the surgery?
  8. What is your success rate with robotic surgeries for this condition, and what factors could affect the outcome of my surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider that may have fewer risks or complications?
  10. Can you provide me with information or resources to learn more about robotic surgery and its potential complications?

Reference

Authors: Sethi RKV, Chen MM, Malloy KM. Journal: Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2020 Dec;53(6):1109-1115. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2020.07.017. Epub 2020 Sep 8. PMID: 32917420