Overview of robotic thyroidectomy

Abstract

With the advancement and adaptation of technology, there has been a tremendous evolution in the surgical approaches for thyroidectomy. Robotic thyroidectomy has become increasingly popular worldwide attracting both surgeons and patients searching for new and innovative techniques for thyroidectomy with a superior cosmetic result when compared to the conventional open procedures. In this review, we describe the following surgical approaches for robotic thyroidectomy: transaxillary, retroauricular (facelift) and transoral. The advantages and disadvantages as well as limitations of each approach are examined, and future directions of robotic thyroidectomy are discussed.