Frequently Asked Questions About Transoral Robotic Surgery

Many patients have questions about transoral robotic surgery. Below are answers to the most common questions asked.

How is transoral robotic different from traditional “open” surgery?
Transoral robotic surgery is minimally invasive and performed through the mouth, which means it doesn’t require any incisions. Traditional “open” surgery usually requires a surgeon to make large incisions in the lip, jaw and throat, which can leave patients with permanently impaired speech, eating and swallowing. Because robotic surgery is less invasive, there is a quicker recovery time, fewer complications and significantly less pain. In addition, robotic surgery allows the surgeon to see the intricate structures of the mouth and throat more clearly, which is especially important when the surgeon is working to preserve their functions.

What happens in the operating room during robotic surgery?
There is usually a preparation period of about one hour before your actual surgery. When the surgery begins, the surgeon sits at the console and places his hands on the controls. In turn, his hand movements are translated into the precise movements of the instruments. There is a high-definition, three-dimensional screen in the operating room that shows what the instruments are doing. The surgeon and an assistant remain by your side throughout surgery.


Only you and your doctor can determine if you are a candidate for transoral robotic surgery. Discuss your options with your doctor. If you need a referral to a surgeon who has been trained in transoral robotic surgery, call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.

I am very overweight. Can I still have transoral robotic surgery?
Because transoral robotic surgery is minimally invasive, surgery on an overweight person is possible. Discuss your options with your doctor.

What if the computer crashes?
The da Vinci® robotic surgical system provides assistance to the surgeon but cannot function on its own. The surgeon controls the robot and directs its movements. As with any procedure, Sharp has full contingency plans for any equipment issues. We are pleased to say that since Sharp first began using robots in 2005, no unexpected downtimes during a procedure have ever occurred.

What if there is a power failure?
Sharp is fully equipped to continue caring for patients throughout the hospital in the event of a power outage. Every facility has reserve power generators, which automatically take over if needed.

Where is transoral robotic surgery offered?
Sharp HealthCare offers da Vinci transoral robotic surgery at Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center, located in South County.

How can I find a surgeon who performs transoral robotic surgery at Sharp?
Sharp accepts almost all health insurances. For help finding a surgeon who specializes in transoral robotic surgery or to schedule a consultation, call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.

How to Choose da Vinci at Sharp
Sharp accepts almost all health insurances. For help finding a surgeon who specializes in transoral robotic surgery or to schedule a consultation, call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.