Robotic-Assisted Microsurgery in Nerve Reconstruction

Robotic-assisted microsurgery (RAM) is a new innovation in nerve reconstruction. Robotic-assisted nerve reconstruction differs from traditional surgery because it uses technology to improve surgery outcomes rather than manually performing surgery. There are many surgeries involved which require nerve reconstruction, such as nerve grafting, tumor removals, nerve transfers, minimally invasive procedures, trigeminal neuralgia, and more. The goal of nerve reconstruction is to restore function and sensation that was partially or completely lost due to nerve damage. Recently, robotic-associated surgery has been found to be more effective and more advantageous than surgery conducted by humans alone. RAM has been found to have more enhanced precision and control, a minimally invasive approach, and  improved visualization. It can also reach deep anatomical areas that are difficult to access manually. 

Robotic-assisted nerve reconstruction has offered enhanced precision and tremor reduction. In numerous robotic surgery tools, optical magnification has increased by up to 10 times. It has also brought high-definition and three-dimensional vision. Three-dimensional vision provides improved depth perception compared to binocular microscopes. Robot-assisted microscopy for nerve reconstruction can work with skin incisions less than 1 centimeter in size. RAM also offers a minimally invasive option. A minimally invasive surgery is a surgical approach that uses small incisions and specialized instruments to perform procedures. These minimally invasive processes allow more precise, accurate, and easy surgeries. 

An example of a robotic system is the Da Vinci system. The Da Vinci system was used in an endoscopic approach to the axillary nerve and nerve branch of the long head of the triceps. It allowed for precise dissection through the quadrilateral space and left no major complications such as injuries or damages. Although Robotic assisted microsurgery in nerve reconstruction is still being tested and studied, its beneficial results offer reassurance of its accuracy.

Written by Urvi Vora at Incisionary

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