“From jacobeaus to the da vinci: thoracoscopic applications of the robot.”
Al-Mufarrej, F., M. Margolis, et al. (2010).
Surg Laparosc Endosc Percutan Tech 20(1): 1-9.
With the increasing recognition of the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, surgical technology has evolved significantly since Jacobeaus’ first attempt at thoracoscopy 100 years ago. Currently, video-assisted thoracic surgery occupies a significant role in the diagnosis and treatment of benign and malignant diseases of the chest. However, the clinical application of video-assisted thoracic surgery is limited by the technical shortcomings of the approach. Although the da Vinci system (Intuitive Surgical) is not the first robotic surgical system, it has been the most successful and widely applicable. After early applications in general and urologic surgery, the da Vinci robot extended its arms into the field of thoracic surgery, broadening the applicability of minimally invasive thoracic surgery. We review the available literature on robot-assisted thoracic surgery in attempt to better define the current role of the robot in pulmonary, mediastinal, and esophageal surgeries.
“Thoracoscopic robot-assisted extended thymectomy in the human cadaver.”
Ishikawa, N., Y. S. Sun, et al. (2010).
Surg Endosc.
METHODS: Thoracoscopic robot-assisted extended thymectomy was performed in a human cadaver. The technique utilized the da Vinci(TM) surgical system inserted through the subxiphoid approach with the sternum lifted upward (anteriorly). A small subxiphoid incision and two additional thoracoports were made in the chest wall, and the sternum was lifted by a new lifting retractor system. RESULTS: This method provided sufficient view and working space in the anterior mediastinum. A complete thymectomy was performed with facility. The robotic system provides superior optics and allows for enhanced dexterity. CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive robotic-assisted thymectomy is an effective procedure and may add benefits for both surgeon and patients.