A new flexible endoscopy-system for the transoral resection of head and neck tumors

Background: Within the last years transoral robotic surgery (TORS) with endoscopic visualization and surgery has gained importance in the resection of head and neck tumors and is an alternative to transoral laser microsurgery. The further development of transoral endoscopic systems should enhance the surgical options and reduce the surgery related morbidity. Thus, we evaluated a new flexible endoscopy system in cadaver -dissections.

Methods: In March 2014 we performed all standard procedures of transoral tumor surgery in the oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx in 3 fresh cadaveric specimens using the Medrobotics Flex(®) System. In a prospective study we analyzed exposure, -visualization, accessibility and resectability of the respective -anatomic regions.

Results: All relevant anatomic structures of the pharynx and supraglottic region could be well exposed, visualized and accessed. Tonsillectomies and resections of the soft palate as well as the base of tongue could be performed easily. Supraglottic resections were possible with a good visualization. The piriform sinus could be exposed, and controlled tissue resections were possible-. The vocal cords were accessible and cordectomies could be performed.

Conclusions: By combining a robot assisted flexible endoscope with flexible instruments the Flex system facilitates the visualization and accessibility of all relevant anatomic structures of pharynx and larynx. It is a promising system which now has to be further evaluated in clinical trials.