Robot-assisted excision of thyroglossal duct cyst by a postauricular facelift approach

Introduction: A trend towards robotic scarless surgery using remote site incisions has developed in head and neck surgery for better cosmetic outcomes. We have carried out robot-assisted excision of thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDC) by a postauricular facelift approach to avoid visible scars in the central neck related to the trans-cervical Sistrunk operation. Aim: To evaluate the technical feasibility and safety of robot-assisted excision of TGDC by a postauricular facelift approach. Material and methods: Six patients who underwent robot-assisted excision of TGDC by a postauricular facelift approach were analyzed. Results: The robotic procedures were done successfully in all patients, without any conversion to a trans-cervical approach or incomplete removal of the lesions. In terms of cosmetic satisfaction, three patients were "very satisfied" and three were "satisfied". Conclusions: Robot-assisted Sistrunk operations for TGDC by a postauricular facelift approach are feasible and safe and yield excellent postoperative cosmesis.