Robotic thyroidectomy is a novel surgical procedure that reduces the cosmetic and functional complications of thyroid surgery.
Conventional thyroid surgery involves making a large incision (cut) on the neck to remove the thyroid tumor. With the advent of robotic thyroid surgery, this large neck incision can be avoided by placing incisions at locations that are not externally visible.
How Is Robotic Thyroidectomy Different From the Conventional Technique?
Robotic thyroidectomy differs from conventional thyroid surgery in several important ways:
Use of a Robotic Surgical System
The robotic system is completely surgeon-controlled and consists of three main components:
- Patient CartThe workhorse of the system, equipped with four robotic arms that perform the surgery.
- Surgeon’s ConsoleThe console where the surgeon sits and controls the robotic arms with precision.
- Vision CartDisplays the surgical field and houses the energy devices used during surgery.
Incision Placement
- No direct incision is made on the neck
- Incisions may be placed:
- In the armpit
- Inside the mouth
- Behind the ear
Enhanced Visualization
- Provides superior magnified and high-definition vision compared to conventional techniques.
Is Robotic Thyroidectomy Safe?
Yes. Over the last decade, significant advancements in robotic technology have made modern robotic surgery very safewhen performed by trained and experienced surgeons.
Recovery After Robotic Thyroidectomy
Due to its minimally invasive nature, recovery is generally faster:
- Normal feeding and walking: within 24 hours
- Hospital stay: 2–3 days
- Home recovery: 5–6 days
Total recovery time: approximately 8–9 days
Patients often experience:
- Less post-operative pain
- Faster return to daily activities
Is Robotic Thyroidectomy Suitable for All Patients?
No.
Robotic thyroidectomy is recommended only for selected patients. Careful patient selection by the surgeon is essential to ensure maximum safety and optimal outcomes.
Who Performs Robotic Thyroidectomy?
How to Choose the Best Surgeon?
Robotic thyroidectomy should be performed only by surgeons who are:
- Highly experienced in thyroid surgery
- Performing high-volume thyroidectomies
Surgeons qualified to perform this procedure include:
- Head and neck surgeons (ENT specialists)
- Surgical oncologists
- ENT surgeons
Among these, head and neck surgeons are best suited due to their extensive training and detailed understanding of thyroid anatomy and surgery.
Cost of Robotic Thyroidectomy
The average cost of robotic thyroid surgery ranges between:
₹3,50,000 to ₹5,50,000
The exact cost may vary depending on:
- Patient condition
- Hospital
- Surgical complexity
Approaches to Robotic Thyroidectomy
There are three commonly used approaches:
1. Axillary Approach (Axillo-Breast Approach / BABA Technique)
- Incisions placed in the armpit and around the areola
- Scars are cosmetically better than neck scars
2. Trans-Oral Approach
- Surgery performed through the inner lip
- No visible external scar
- Possible disadvantage: reduced cheek sensation in some patients
3. Retro-Auricular Approach
- Scar hidden behind the ear lobe
- Especially useful for unilateral (one-sided) thyroid surgery
Conclusion
Robotic thyroidectomy is a highly advantageous technique when clinically indicated. While it does not completely replace conventional thyroid surgery, it offers a modern approach that improves cosmetic outcomes, reduces pain, and speeds recovery.
Whenever suitable, robotic thyroidectomy should be considered for optimal patient benefit.
