Robot-Assisted Retroauricular Anterior Scalenectomy for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

BACKGROUND: This study described the surgical technique of a robot-assisted retroauricular anterior scalenectomy and assessed clinical outcomes and complications for patients with neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS). METHODS: Between February 2014 and August 2016, 5 patients underwent robot-assisted retroauricular anterior scalenectomy using the da Vinci Xi system for nTOS. For clinical assessment, visual analog scale (VAS) symptom score, pinch and grip strength, and disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score were assessed to compare preoperative and postoperative outcomes. Postoperative complications were also reviewed. RESULTS: The VAS symptom, pinch and grip strength, and DASH scores improved 1 year after the operation. All patients were satisfied with the surgical scars. Temporary postoperative complications, which spontaneously resolved within 3 months, were noticed in 2 patients: one with vocal cord palsy and the other with upper brachial plexus palsy. CONCLUSIONS: The robot-assisted retroauricular anterior scalenectomy for patients with nTOS seems feasible and safe, providing satisfactory cosmetic results.