BACKGROUND: The role of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in the treatment of head and neck tumors has expanded in the last decade. OBJECTIVES: We present the development and current advances in TORS along with the current indications and contraindications, and describe future developments. METHODS: We present our own studies and review those in the literature. RESULTS: Since approval of the da Vinci® system, the number of TORS cases has increased significantly. The main indications are tumors of the oropharynx and supraglottis. Most published studies are retrospective case series with no control group. In addition to the further development of the da Vinci® system, the introduction of the Flex®-system is a significant progression. The costs of using robotic systems are high. CONCLUSIONS: Technical improvement of robotic systems and the development of new surgical techniques will further expand the indications for TORS. The value of TORS needs to be assessed in prospective controlled studies.