Robotic circumferential tracheal resection and reconstruction via a completely portal approach

Abstract

Robotic surgery for circumferential tracheal resection and reconstruction has not previously been reported. Herein we describe the case of a 48-year-old man with primary extra-luminal tracheal leiomyosarcoma. A preoperative bronchoscopy exam and chest computed tomography revealed a tracheal neoplasm, which derived from lower membranous trachea and nearly obstructed the orifice of the left main bronchus. The patient underwent circumferential tracheal resection and reconstruction via a completely portal robotic approach with four arms. Benefitting from flexible instruments and a three-dimensional magnified view, telescope anastomosis was performed and modulated. No postoperative complications presented. Follow-up showed the reconstructed trachea without stenosis or recurrence.

Keywords: Anastomosis; robotic surgery; trachea.