Transoral Robotic Surgery for Parapharyngeal Space Masses: Indications and Results

Abstract

Introduction: Transoral excision of parapharyngeal space (PPS) masses has historically been viewed with caution due to the lack of proximal vascular control and the limited access. Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) has emerged as an effective technique for selected parapharyngeal space masses. O’Malley and Weinstein and associates reported the first series of 10 patients treated with TORS for PPS masses in 2010 and described the technique and suggested indications and contraindications for the technique. Transoral surgery potentially avoids several complications associated with the open approaches.