Am I a candidate for robotic surgery?
There are numerous factors which determine if you are a candidate for robotic surgery. Robotic-assisted surgery may not be right for everyone. Please be aware of your surgical options by speaking with your physician.
Is the physician performing the surgery or a robot?
The surgeon is performing the surgery. The robotic system translates the surgeon’s movements at a console to the instruments on the robot.
What is my recovery time?
Recovery is faster with robotic surgery. There are no external incisions or communications between the throat and the neck (which is required in open surgery). This leads to a lower chance of infection and less swelling.
How long will I be in surgery?
Each surgery is different and the length of the surgery varies based on the size of the tumor, extent of the tumor, and location but typically the TORS approach is significantly faster than the comparative open surgery.
Will you have to cut me open?
No. The tumor will be removed completely through the mouth. Frequently a neck dissection is required to remove the lymph nodes which may be involved with cancer. This is performed after the tumor resection though.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Patients are usually in the hospital for 1-3 days.