Intraoperative and Short-Term Postoperative Outcomes Associated With Transoral Robotic Surgery: A Protocol for a Scoping Review

Acta Anaesthesiol Scand. 2025 Jul;69(6):e70052. doi: 10.1111/aas.70052.

Abstract

Background: Transoral robotic surgery has been introduced into clinical practice as a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of both malignant and benign conditions within the field of otorhinolaryngology. While the long-term outcomes of this innovative surgical technique have been extensively studied, evidence regarding intraoperative and short-term postoperative outcomes remains limited. This scoping review aims to systematically outline and evaluate the current evidence on perioperative outcomes.

Methods: This protocol has been developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol and will adhere to the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines for reporting. A structured "Population, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome" framework will guide the definition of search criteria. A comprehensive search will be conducted in The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and Embase databases. The study selection and screening process will be performed independently by two reviewers, with consensus reached in cases of disagreement. All identified intraoperative and short-term postoperative outcomes of transoral robotic surgery will be analyzed and described.

Discussion: The aim of this scoping review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence on intraoperative and short-term postoperative outcomes associated with transoral robotic surgery. This will help identify gaps in the literature and inform future clinical practice and research.

Keywords: anesthesia; robotic surgical procedures; scoping review; treatment outcome.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery* / adverse effects
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery* / methods
  • Postoperative Complications* / epidemiology
  • Research Design
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures* / adverse effects
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures* / methods
  • Scoping Review as Topic
  • Treatment Outcome