09-13, 08:15–08:30 (Europe/Istanbul), Head & Neck Surgery 4
We propose a 7-minute Master of Surgery video presentation showcasing a high-volume, multidisciplinary pathway for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) managed with Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS)—with the emphasis firmly on advanced intraoperative technique and how it integrates with peri-operative functional care.
The video is structured as an end-to-end surgical episode, from selection to early recovery, but its centre of gravity is the operating theatre. We demonstrate how we standardise transoral access and exposure (retractor choice, tongue traction strategy, 0°/30° optics selection, arm geometry and collision avoidance) to create a stable corridor that makes precise resection possible. We then present a reproducible compartment-oriented resection method for OPSCC, including incision design, traction–counter-traction, controlled development of deep margins, and en-bloc specimen delivery with explicit orientation and margin mapping to optimise pathology communication.
A dedicated segment focuses on haemostasis as a planned workflow: anticipation of vascular risk zones, disciplined energy use to minimise thermal spread, stepwise haemostatic escalation, and immediate readiness for post-operative bleeding risk management. Throughout, we highlight operative decision points that directly influence functional outcomes—mucosal preservation where oncologically appropriate, avoidance of unnecessary thermal injury, and closure/defect management choices that protect swallowing biomechanics.
To keep the presentation forward-looking, we frame the precision, standardisation, and expanding capability: better platform choice and instrumentation matching to index procedures, increasingly reliable set-up and ergonomics, and incremental integration of image-informed planning and theatre workflows that improve safety in confined anatomy—while maintaining clear surgeon accountability.
Finally, we show how technical excellence is supported by an integrated team: CNS coordination, early SALT involvement for swallow assessment and rehabilitation planning, and dietetic optimisation to prevent malnutrition and guide safe progression of intake. The overall narrative is that modern OPSCC TORS success is built on world-class intraoperative execution plus structured functional recovery pathways.
To demonstrate, in a 7-minute Master of Surgery video, our high-volume MDT pathway for OPSCC treated with transoral robotic surgery (TORS), with emphasis on advanced intraoperative technique—reproducible exposure, safe robotic set-up, compartment-based resection, margin strategy with clear specimen orientation, and pre-emptive haemostasis to support oncologic clearance and functional preservation. The video also shows how early SALT and dietetic involvement, coordinated by the CNS, standardises post-operative swallowing rehabilitation, nutrition optimisation, and follow-up to deliver consistent, evidence-based patient outcomes.
Betul Berkay is an Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgeon and Advanced Head & Neck Robotic and Oncological Surgery Fellow at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK. Her clinical focus is minimally invasive and function-preserving management of head and neck cancer, with particular interest in transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and multidisciplinary pathways for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. She contributes to service development and quality improvement in head and neck oncology, including standardised peri-operative pathways integrating clinical nurse specialists, speech and language therapy, and dietetics. Dr Berkay is committed to surgical education and outcomes-driven care, with interests in structured training, governance, and safe adoption of surgical technology.