Minimally Invasive New Technology in Oncologic Surgery

Clinical operations plays a pivotal role in the efficient functioning of MINTOS by exploring various aspects, such as the analysis of trends and outcomes, resource allocations and infrastructure needs. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the overall quality of patient care, optimize operational processes and ensure the seamless delivery of state-of-the-art minimally invasive oncologic surgery.

Robotic assisted surgery has steadily become the mainstay for complex minimally invasive cancer surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center, with more than 2,000 cases being performed in 2023 using the da Vinci surgical robot. Although the miniaturized robotic instruments perform the actual surgery through tiny access incisions, they still require continuous direct input from the surgeon and are not autonomous in any way. Candidates for robotic-assisted surgery include many patients undergoing urologic, gynecologic, abdominal and thoracic procedures, and head and neck surgeries. Patients interested in exploring robotic surgery at MD Anderson should schedule an appointment with one of our surgeons.

The Safety and Quality Oversight pillar supports the broader framework of our minimally invasive surgery platform with a primary mission to standardize credentialing and recredentialing processes, contribute to quality assurance and accountability, and ensure the safe and effective delivery of minimally invasive procedures. This strategic approach helps foster a culture of excellence, safety, accountability and patient-centric care.

A dynamic force is driving the advancement of not only robotic surgery but also other new technologies that continually transform the delivery surgical care within the operating room. Recent examples include single-port robotic surgery, robotic endoscopy and intraoperative molecular imaging. Central to this pillar is a commitment to advancing procedural development, which involves multidisciplinary collaboration across surgical departments.

MINTOS provides a multifaceted approach that includes simulations, online training modules, hands-on training labs and collaborative efforts with the Division of Surgery Education Program directors. By leveraging innovative educational curricula, this pillar aims to provide our surgeons, trainees and allied staff with the knowledge, skills and proficiency necessary to provide cutting-edge surgical care.