The Flex Robotic System in Head and Neck Surgery: A Review

Abstract

The Flex Robotic System is a device intended for robot-assisted visualization and surgical site access to the head and neck. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge about the Flex Robotic System in head and neck transoral robotic surgery (TORS). The primary search was performed using the term “Flex Robot” across several databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus). Patients were treated for both benign and malignant diseases. The oropharynx was the most frequent site of disease, followed by the supraglottic larynx, hypopharynx, glottic larynx, oral cavity, and salivary glands. Most of the studies did not reveal major intra- or post-operative complications. Bleeding incidence was low (1.4–15.7%). Visualization of the lesion was 95–100%, while surgical success was 91–100%. In conclusion, lesions of the oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx can be successfully resected, thus making the Flex Robotic System a safe and effective tool, reducing the morbidity associated with traditional open surgery.

Current Approaches to Salvage Surgery for Head and Neck Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

“…In a study by White et al [9], we noticed shorter operative times and hospital stays, and less postoperative complications and functional disability, such as speech or swallowing functions. Several tools are in development and have already demonstrated convincing results for this surgical technique, such as the Flex Robotic System potentially replacing the DaVinci Si HD system already in place [10].…”

“…Thanks to nerve detectors or nerve stimulators, such structures can indeed be avoided by the surgeon. More studies to come will allow for the more widespread use of TORS in the future [10,12].…”