Skip to main content
search

Transoral Robotic Surgery

For select patients who have collapse of the airway in the base of the tongue at night, Dr. Pasha may suggest using the newest technology, the da Vinci Robot to access the base of tongue. Robotic technology requires special certification. The advantage of utilizing the robot is to allow for better visualization and better access to the deeper portion of the throat.

The robot is utilized in the operating room while you are asleep. The robot is positioned and then using a 3-D image, small “arms” are able to reduce the size of the tongue base using a variety of methods.

For some sleep apneic patients and snorers, the tongue may fall back during sleep causing obstruction and snoring. The purpose of reducing the base of tongue is to prevent the tongue from blocking the airway at night. Using the da Vinci Robot for sleep apnea is a developing technology that has not been FDA approved specifically for sleep apnea.

FAQ about Transoral Robotic Surgery

What are the benefits of da Vinci Surgery compared with traditional methods of surgery?

Some of the benefits experienced by surgeons using the da Vinci Robot over traditional approaches include better precision, range of motion, and visualization.

Will the way I swallow change?

Surprisingly, removal of a portion of the base of tongue for the most part does not significantly change swallowing function once healed.

What can I eat after the surgery?

You will be on a soft diet for 10-14 days while your throat and base of tongue heals to avoid bleeding. For most you should anticipate a 5-15 lb. weight loss. It is important to maintain your fluid and electrolyte intake while healing to avoid dehydration. Dehydration is a common cause of increased pain as well as complications after surgery.

Is a surgeon using the da Vinci Surgical System operating in “virtual reality”?

No. Although seated a few feet away from the patient, Dr. Pasha will view an actual image of the surgical field while operating in real-time. At no time does the surgeon see a virtual image outside of the surgeon’s direct, real-time control.

Will my voice change?

No. The creation of your voice begins in the voice box while resonance is a function the back of the nose. The tongue and lips participate in articulation but it is the front of the tongue that is functional in speech. Therefore, removal of a portion of the base of tongue has very little effect in voice.

What are the risks of the procedure?

Although the FDA has not approved robotic surgery specifically for sleep apnea, there are peer-reviewed literature that supports its technique as safe and effective. Complications are rather rare. The number one complication (<1%) would be bleeding. If this occurs you may require a visit to the operating room to “buzz” the bleeder.

Functional complications (numbness, swallowing, and voice changes) are exceedingly rare.

The office will provide a more comprehensive list of potential complication when you are consented. You will also be given a comprehensive counseling by Dr. Pasha and his staff.

The Importance of Sleep

Dr. Pasha discusses the importance of sleep on Great Day Houston.

Watch Here

Schedule an Appointment

"*" indicates required fields