TORS

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is a type of surgery that uses a specially designed robot to assist surgeons in performing procedures through the mouth. This approach allows for the removal of tumors in the throat and neck without the need for large external incisions.

History

The first TORS procedure was performed in 2005 by a team of surgeons at the University of Pennsylvania. Since then, the use of TORS has expanded to treat a variety of conditions, including sleep apnea, throat cancer, and base of tongue cancer.

Procedure

During a TORS procedure, the surgeon uses a console to control the robot's arms, which hold and manipulate small surgical instruments. The robot's arms are designed to mimic the movements of the surgeon's hands, allowing for precise control and movement. The surgeon also uses a 3D camera to view the surgical area in high definition.

Advantages

TORS offers several advantages over traditional surgical methods. These include less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery times, and the ability to perform complex procedures in hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, because TORS is performed through the mouth, there is no need for external incisions, reducing the risk of scarring and infection.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, TORS carries some risks. These can include difficulty swallowing, changes in voice quality, and the potential for damage to surrounding tissues and structures. However, the risk of these complications is generally low.

See also

• Robotic surgery
• Transoral laser microsurgery
• Head and neck cancer

References

TORS Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia