Dr Park on the Assessment of Robot-Assisted Nipple Sparing Mastectomy in Breast Cancer

Ko Un “Clara” Park, MD, associate surgeon, Division of Breast Surgery, Director of Research, Breast Surgery Network Sites, Center for Surgery and Public Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, member, faculty of surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Harvard Medical School, discusses the ongoing evaluation of robot-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy for patients with breast cancer.

Park explains that this novel surgical technology is undergoing exploration across various institutions globally. This approach integrates existing robotic technology into the execution of nipple-sparing mastectomy, presenting potential advantages such as enhanced surgeon ergonomics and improved visualization of the surgical site, Park explains.

Despite the perceived benefits of this approach, ongoing studies are primarily focusing on elucidating the oncologic safety profile of robot-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy, Park says. This pivotal aspect remains a critical consideration for its widespread adoption and integration into clinical practice, she adds.

Several challenges hinder the broad application of this technology, Park continues. Firstly, regulatory considerations pose significant hurdles. Additionally, utilizing this robotic technology within clinical practice requires a high number of resources, which can represent a substantial barrier, she adds, noting that implementation requires a dedicated robotic team and specialized surgical expertise, demanding additional training to ensure procedural proficiency and patient safety. These practical considerations underscore the complexities associated with the widespread implementation of robot-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy, Park notes.

Although robot-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy represents an innovative approach to surgical intervention, critical evaluations of its oncologic safety and the resolution of regulatory and practical barriers are imperative for its broader clinical utilization. Ongoing research endeavors and collaborative efforts are essential in advancing the understanding and application of this evolving technology within the realm of oncologic surgery, Park concludes.