Robotic Facelift Thyroidectomy: A Novel Remote Access Thyroidectomy Technique

Conclusions: We describe a safer and easier robotic technique that involves a facelift incision and therefore maintains the advantages of no neck incision, but without the increased risks associated with an axillary approach. Introduction A safe and effective remote access thyroidectomy technique would allow patients to completely avoid a cervical incision. Remote access techniques that have been described are challenging and have been associated with a number of significant complications. Robotic facelift thyroidectomy (RFT) is a novel approach which may be safer and easier to perform. Technical Details Pocket Creation •Facelift incision •Stepwise identification/dissection of: •Auricular nerve •Anterior border of SCM muscle •Platysma muscle •Strap muscles above omohyoid muscle •Retraction of flap & SCM muscle