title: The voice-controlled robotic assist scope holder AESOP for the endoscopic approach to the sella.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the feasibility of using a voice-controlled robot Automated Endoscopic System for Optimal Positioning (AESOP) for holding and maneuvering the endoscope in the trans-sphenoidal approach to the pituitary.
  
  
  METHODS
  To compare the manual approach to the voice-activated robotic scope holder in maneuvering the endoscope and resecting pituitary lesions using a two-handed technique.
  
  
  METHODS
  Robotic laboratory at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport.
  
  
  METHODS
  Ten fresh cadaver heads.
  
  
  METHODS
  To determine the feasibility, advantages, and disadvantages of a single neurosurgeon maneuvering the endoscope, visualizing key anatomical features in the sphenoid, and resecting skull base lesions after the approach by an otolaryngologist.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The learning curve for utilization of the voice-controlled robotic arm was short. The compact cart with the AESOP took up little space and allowed the standard setup for this procedure. The elimination of the need for manual stabilization of the endoscope permitted the use of both hands for the actual procedure. The elimination of the tremor inherent with holding the endoscope manually allowed the scope to be placed closer to the target organ with fewer collisions. The most significant advantage was the ability of AESOP to save three anatomical positions, which could be returned to with a single voice command.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Recently, the endoscopic-endonasal approach to the sella has gained popularity. The voice-activated robotic scope holder is safe and has several advantages over current scope holders. Its utility may reduce operating time and eliminate the need for a second surgeon to hold the endoscope.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, Louisiana. cnatha@lsuhsc.edu
authors.forename: Cherie-Ann O
authors.initials: CO
authors.lastname: Nathan
authors.forename: Vinaya
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Chakradeo
authors.forename: Kavita
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Malhotra
authors.forename: Horacio
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: D'Agostino
authors.forename: Ravish
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Patwardhan