A new dimension: robotic reconstruction in plastic surgery.

A new dimension: robotic reconstruction in plastic surgery.

Patel Nima P; Van Meeteren Justin; Pedersen John

Journal of robotic surgery

2012

2012-03

BACKGROUND: Robot-assisted surgery was first approved by the Federal Drug Administration in 1994. The robotic system has the advantages of three-dimensional visualization of the operating field, 7 degrees range of motion, tremor elimination, 360 degrees of freedom at 10-mm distance, and a comfortable, seated operating posture. The purpose of this paper is to present a new surgical tool, the robot, for use in reconstructive surgery. METHODS: A case is presented in which the robotic system was used to elevate a pedicled, myocutaneous latissimus dorsi flap for shoulder reconstruction. RESULTS: The robot was used successfully to harvest a pedicled latissimus dorsi flap. Since this case, we have used the robotic system to harvest one other pedicled latissimus flap for breast reconstruction as well as to perform the microvascular anastomoses in a radial forearm and rectus abdominus free flaps to the lower extremity. CONCLUSION: There is great potential for the use of robot as a surgical tool in the field of plastic surgery. The advantages are numerous, including superior visibility, greater range of motion as a more comfortable position for the operating surgeon. The limitations include the learning curve and the lack of biofeedback.

Latissimus dorsi flap; Robotic surgery

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