Future of Robotics in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery

Indications for robotic surgery continue to expand within the field of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for benign and malignant diseases of the tonsils and base of tongue is the most common procedure and can be performed using different robotic platforms. However, recent advances in surgical techniques and robotic technologies may lead to increased interest in transoral and/or transcervical robotic approaches to the neck for procedures such as thyroidectomy, salivary gland excision, and neck dissection. The anterior and lateral skull base may also become more favorable targets for robotic interventions as the technology continues to improve. This chapter briefly reviews the history and current cutting edge of robotics in this field and highlights important trends for the future.