Transoral robotic surgery in Ireland: the beginning

Background Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) has shown promising results in the treatment of myriad head and neck pathologies but is now most commonly used in the investigation and management of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Aims The aim of this study was to report our cases of the newly introduced TORS, particularly its role in identifying primary of unknown origin and the potential implications for patients. A literature review and our early experience should begin to debunk some of the criticisms of TORS including setup times and cost. Methods Prospective data was collected from all patients undergoing transoral robotic surgery including demographics, indication, histology results in primary of unknown origin and complications. Results We have performed 36 TORS procedures in total ranging from intermediate to major complex. Our complication rate is low, and this has improved with the passage of time. Haemorrhage rates remain at 5.6% ( n = 2), and the average length of stay is 1 day. Successful identification of a primary tumour in cancer of unknown primary was 80% ( n = 8). Conclusions We anticipate the integration of TORS into routine practice in the investigation and management of a number of ENT pathologies following robust clinical trials.