Literature Review on Endoscopic Robotic Systems in Ear and Sinus Surgery
This is an incremental literature review that synthesizes existing knowledge to guide future robotic system development for otolaryngologic surgeons.
The paper reviewed and classified existing robotic systems for endoscopic ear and sinus surgery to address the limitation of surgeons being restricted to one instrument at a time due to endoscope manipulation, aiming to derive specifications for developing new robots.
In otolaryngologic surgery, endoscopy is increasingly used to provide a better view of hard-to-reach areas and to promote minimally invasive surgery. However, the need to manipulate the endoscope limits the surgeon's ability to operate with only one instrument at a time. Currently, several robotic systems are being developed, demonstrating the value of robotic assistance in microsurgery. The aim of this literature review is to present and classify current robotic systems that are used for otological and endonasal applications. For these solutions, an analysis of the functionalities in relation to the surgeon's needs will be carried out in order to produce a set of specifications for the creation of new robots.