While robotic technology is now commonly used for surgical treatment of various cancers, its use in breast cancer surgeries is a newer, promising application.
Katherine Kopkash, MD, breast surgical oncologist at Endeavor Health, is the Principal Investigator of two clinical trials using the robotic approach for nipple-sparing mastectomies. Dr. Kopkash, who also serves as Director of Oncoplastic Breast Surgery, first became interested in the innovative approach after looking at data collected in surgical cases performed in Europe.
Nipple-sparing mastectomies traditionally performed as open surgical procedures involve a long incision across the inferior fold of the breast. The minimally-invasive, robotic approach uses a smaller incision on the lateral chest wall, with no incision on the breast, and thus no large scars under the breast.
Initial data from the robotic procedures abroad indicated a lower complication rate for flap necrosis, as well as higher rates of preservation of sensation in the nipple, in addition to the improved aesthetic results. And what really piqued Dr. Kopkash’s interest was the improved ergonomics for surgeons.
“The vast majority of nipple-sparing mastectomy surgeries in the United States are done at a small percentage of medical centers,” said Dr. Kopkash. “It’s an operation with benefits for patients, but it’s really hard on the surgeons.” She hopes that surgeons’ ergonomic data collected during the clinical trial procedures will show that this approach is easier on the surgeons, ultimately making the procedure available to more women across the country.
Dr. Kopkash leads the two trials at Endeavor Health Evanston Hospital, one for high-risk patients undergoing a prophylactic mastectomy and the other for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The entire surgery is performed through a small, 3.5 cm incision using the robotic technology.
“It’s important to emphasize that the robotic platform is just a tool we use to help complete part of the surgery,” explained Dr. Kopkash, countering misconceptions about robots performing surgery. The robotic technology offers enhanced lighting and magnified views of the targeted anatomy and has allowed for enhanced flexibility and precision for surgeons using the technology in other FDA-approved oncologic procedures.
Endeavor Health is the only site in Illinois participating in the national clinical trials, and one of just 15 sites across the country. The robotic approach for nipple-sparing mastectomy is not yet FDA approved, so only eligible patients participating in the clinical trials are currently undergoing the robotic-platform procedure.
“These national clinical trials have the highest level of scientific oversight and give us the highest level of data,” said Dr. Kopkash. “This is how we move the needle in medicine.”
“Our goal in the treatment of breast cancer is excellent oncologic and cosmetic outcomes that preserve our patient’s quality of life and sense of self,” said Dr. Kopkash. “These clinical trials will examine the use of important new technology that may provide significant short-term and long-term benefits to our patients.”
Eligible patients who meet the study criteria are followed closely and have an additional point of contact with the clinical research associate Anne Jankowski, added Dr. Kopkash.
“Having these trials is such an achievement for Endeavor Health and we are so lucky to have a great research team and the ability to offer our patients this progressive surgical option,” said Dr. Kopkash.
Interested patients can learn more about the trials here or ajankowski [at] northshore.org (email our team).
Learn more about research and innovation at Endeavor Health.
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