Robot-assisted resection of pre-sacral schwannoma

Abstract

Resection of a giant pre-sacral schwannoma originating from the right S2 nerve in a 22-year-old woman illustrates the potential for robotic surgery. The da Vinci Robot Surgical System facilitates visualization deep in the pelvis and allows for bimanual wristed instrument control to dissect the tumor from surrounding sensitive structures. Neurostimulation to identify critical nerves is possible and complete resection of the tumor can be achieved. There were no complications, she remained neurologically intact, the estimated blood loss was less than 75 ml, the total hospital stay was 3 days, and she returned to work within 2 weeks of her operation. In select patients, robot-assisted surgery may have advantages.