Abstract | OBJECTIVE: : After the introduction of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery 20 years ago, the minimally invasive techniques in thoracic surgery have found a growing application. The recent introduction of robotic technology has increased the potentiality of thoracoscopic technique leading to an expansion of indications and applications, particularly for the management of mediastinal diseases. We reviewed our experience in robot-assisted thoracoscopic resection of benign and malignant mediastinal diseases. METHODS: RESULTS: : All procedures were completed successfully using the da Vinci robot; no open conversions were required, but in three (2.8%) cases, a fourth access was added. There was no surgical mortality; four (3.6%) patients had postoperative complications (two hemothorax, one chylothorax, and one fever) treated conservatively. Median operation time was 120 (range 60-300) minutes and median hospitalization was 3 (range 2-14) days. Global benefit rate for patients with myasthenia gravis reached the value of 93.4% with progressive improvement over years. CONCLUSIONS: : Several mediastinal operations may be feasible by using a robot-aided thoracoscopic approach. The technical innovations offered by robotic instrumentation make all procedures safer and easier when compared with standard thoracoscopic approach, with particular reference for application in mediastinal field.
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Authors | Federico Rea, Marco Schiavon, Francesco Di Chiara, Giuseppe Marulli |
Journal | Innovations (Philadelphia, Pa.)
(Innovations (Phila))
Vol. 6
Issue 5
Pg. 316-22
(Sep 2011)
ISSN: 1559-0879 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 22436708
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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