Trans-Oral Robotic Surgery (TORS)
Benefit of TORS
Precision: The robotic system provides enhanced dexterity and precision, with the elimination of tremor, allowing surgeons to manoeuvre in tight spaces and perform intricate movements with greater accuracy than traditional techniques.
Advanced Technology: High‑resolution, three-dimensional optics and magnification allow for excellent visualisation. Wristed instruments enable delicate tissue handling. Challenging tasks such as endoscopic suturing may also be performed.
Less Invasive: Compared to open surgery, which requires a long ear-to-lip incision to access the tumour – and in some cases also requires breaking the jawbone - TORS reduces the need for external incisions leading to reduced blood loss and less post-operative pain and no visible scarring.
Reduced Complications: By accessing the surgical site through the mouth, TORS reduces the risk of damaging surrounding nerves, blood vessels, and tissues.
Quicker Recovery: Patients typically experience shorter hospital stays (1-2 days, versus 7-15 days). They return faster to speaking and swallowing (as early as the day after surgery) and there is a reduction of possible swallowing or speech issues.
Minimal Post-operative Treatment: Patients speak of less post-surgical pain and less medication is requires. There is a reduction (or even elimination) in the need for chemotherapy or radiation, particularly for early-stage cancers. No tracheotomy is needed.
Cost Efficiency: Reduction of OR time, necessary staff, utility of materials, and length of hospital stay, all translate to cost savings to the hospital and ultimately to each patient.
