Robots take on breast cancer surgery in tiny pilot trial

NCT ID NCT04537312

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study tested whether a robot-assisted surgical technique (using the daVinci system) can safely remove breast tissue while sparing the nipple in people with early-stage breast cancer or those needing preventive mastectomy. Only 4 participants were enrolled, and the study focused on feasibility, surgical time, and complications like bleeding or infection. Because it is very small and early, the results are preliminary and not yet generalizable.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Robot-assisted nipple sparing mastectomy (using the daVinci surgical system)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that robot-assisted mastectomy is safe and feasible, potentially offering a less invasive surgical option for some breast cancer patients.

What could go wrong

This is a very small pilot study with only 4 participants, so results may not apply widely. The procedure is still experimental and risks like bleeding, infection, or skin necrosis are being evaluated.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

breast cancer ductal breast carcinoma in situ

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center

    Columbus, Ohio, 43210, United States