Background: Robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly used in pediatric otolaryngology, offering potential benefits like improved cosmetic outcomes. However, challenges such as longer operative times, higher costs, and a steep learning curve remain.
Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis assess whether robotic-assisted surgery offers advantages in operative time, complication rates, hospital stay, and cosmetic outcomes compared to traditional methods in pediatric patients.
Methods: A literature search identified 20 studies, with six focused on thyroidectomy. Data on operative time, complications, hospital stay, and cosmetic outcomes were extracted and analyzed.
Results: No significant differences in operative time or complications were found for robotic-assisted thyroidectomy, but it showed superior cosmetic outcomes and, in some cases, shorter hospital stays. Additional analyses suggested feasibility and functional benefits of other robotic procedures.
Conclusions: Robotic-assisted surgery in pediatric otolaryngology is as safe and efficient as traditional methods, with added cosmetic and functional benefits. Further large-scale trials are needed.
Keywords: Meta-analysis; Minimally invasive surgery; Pediatric otolaryngology; Robotic-assisted surgery; Systematic review; Thyroidectomy; Transoral robotic surgery.
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