New Frontiers in Robotic-Assisted Microsurgical Reconstruction

Clin Plast Surg. 2017 Apr;44(2):415-423. doi: 10.1016/j.cps.2016.12.003. Epub 2017 Feb 3.

Abstract

Robotic surgery has revolutionized minimally invasive surgery. Owing to its unique features and key advantages, robotic surgery is being used for complex cases across surgical specialties. It has been introduced into reconstructive surgery, and is being applied in microsurgery. Robotic surgery combines properties of conventional microsurgery, endoscopic surgery, and telesurgery. It holds great promise in expanding the boundaries of reconstructive microsurgery. However, there are constraints that limit its widespread use. We present the different clinical applications of robotic microsurgery, highlighting its advantages over conventional microsurgery, and outlining the main limitations that might prevent its widespread use.

Keywords: Da Vinci system; Lymphedema surgery; Microvascular surgery; Minimally invasive surgery; Reconstructive microsurgery; Robotic surgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endoscopy
  • Humans
  • Microsurgery / methods*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures / methods*