Robotic Mastoidectomy

Robotic mastoidectomy.

HYPOTHESIS Using image-guided surgical techniques, we propose that an industrial robot can be programmed to safely, effectively, and efficiently perform a mastoidectomy. BACKGROUND Whereas robotics is a mature field in many surgical applications, robots have yet to be clinically used in otologic surgery despite significant advantages including reliability and precision. METHODS We designed ...

An experimental evaluation of the force requirements for robotic mastoidectomy.

HYPOTHESIS During robotic milling of the temporal bone, forces on the cutting burr may be lowered by choice of cutting parameters. BACKGROUND Robotic bone removal systems are used in orthopedic procedures, but they are currently not accurate enough for safe use in otologic surgery. We propose the use of a bone-attached milling robot to achieve the required accuracy and speed. To design such a...

A brief history of mastoidectomy

AIM  To describe to the new generation of otologists the origins of mastoidectomy as well as the difficulties our predecessors encountered and the solutions they devised to improve otologic surgery. METHOD  Retrospective literature review-based study. RESULTS  Before the mid-19th century, mastoidectomy was performed only sporadically and in most cases as a desperate attempt to save the live...

Mastoidectomy using an osteoplastic flap.

DURING the past 20 years there have been numerous changes in our approach to mastoid surgery. New procedures have been evolved, and old ones discarded or sometimes revived. In our present state of knowledge, three principles govern our approach to surgery of chronic ear and mastoid suppuration. Firstly, all disease and especially all cholesteatoma, must be eradicated at operation. As a corollar...

Mastoidectomy Vs Tympanoplasty – a Conceptual Renaissance. Preamble to an Original Method of Mastoidectomy