Robotic resection of benign neck masses via a retroauricular approach.

[OBJECTIVES] The purpose of this study was to analyze the feasibility and safety of robotic resection of benign upper neck masses through a modified facelift approach.

[PATIENTS AND METHODS] Between November 2010 and February 2012, 9 patients were enrolled in this prospective study. Six patients received a robotic submandibular gland resection via a retroauricular approach. Two patients received robotic resection of the second branchial cleft cyst. One patient received robotic operation for the removal of lymphadenopathy, which occurred in the submental area.

[RESULTS] Robotic resection of a benign upper neck mass was successfully performed through a retroauricular approach in all patients. The average robotic system docking times and robotic operation times were 8.5 minutes and 62.4 minutes, respectively. All patients were extremely satisfied with their cosmetic results after the operation. There were no cases of nerve palsy in the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve, the lingual nerve, the hypoglossal nerve, or the spinal accessory nerve. No patient required blood transfusion in response to significant bleeding or was converted to open surgery. Mean blood loss was minimal (6.6 mL). The average period of follow-up for the patients was 12.7 months. All patients have maintained disease-free status.

[CONCLUSIONS] Robotic resection of a benign upper neck mass via a retroauricular approach is technically feasible and results in better cosmetic outcomes than the conventional transcervical approach. This new surgical method is safe and effective for benign upper neck masses that require surgical removal.