Robotic-Assisted Versus Endoscopic-Assisted Axillary Lymph Node Dissection in Breast Cancer

In the researchers' words

This is a multicenter, retrospective observational study comparing the safety and efficacy of robotic-assisted versus endoscopic-assisted axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in patients with node-positive breast cancer. The study aims to evaluate the protective effect on the intercostobrachial nerve (ICBN), perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications, and quality of life between the two minimally invasive techniques, as well as to assess long-term oncological outcomes including axillary recurrence and survival. Data will be extracted from routine clinical records. The study will compare the robotic group and the endoscopic group with respect to the following outcome measures: 1. ICBN-related sensory outcomes: incidence of sensory impairment (light touch, pinprick, cold, and warm sensations) in four key regions innervated by the ICBN (medial upper arm, axilla, lateral chest wall, and upper chest wall) assessed using standardized bedside sensory testing and sensory scoring systems; 2. Perioperative outcomes: including but not limited to operative time, estimated blood loss, number of lymph nodes dissected, length of hospital stay, drainage duration and axillary neurotomy; 3. Postoperative complications: including but not limited to seroma, hematoma, wound infection, lymphedema, and shoulder dysfunction; 4. Pain and functional outcomes: including but not limited to…