Nov 30 2010
Detroit- based Henry Ford Hospital is deploying TransOral Robotic Surgery for oral cancer treatment. Surgeons have stated that the robotic procedure provides an effective treatment option for oral cancer patients who might otherwise lose talking and eating abilities as a result of conventional surgeries.
The traditional methods of treating oral, head-and-neck cancers involve large cuts in jaw, lip and throat, leading to complications that impede gulping, chewing and talking. They also inflict significant blood loss and injure nearby tissues.
Non-smokers are affected by cancer due to the human papillomavirus. This virus is also related with cervical cancer. The extended slim arms of the robot enable the surgeon to easily operate inside the throat and mouth of the cancer patient.
Dr. Tamer Ghanem, of Henry Ford Hospital, has stated that the robot offers a 3D view of the tumor, enabling the surgeon to view what he is doing.
The Michigan University is researching whether the robot-assisted surgery outcomes can cope with the traditional radiation and chemotherapy.
Source: http://www.henryfordhealth.org