ABSTRACT
There is considerable enthusiasm regarding minimally invasive surgical techniques. Laparoscopic surgical approaches have dramatically altered the field of general surgery. The advantages of transperitoneal laparoscopic surgery for the patient include smaller incisions with lessening postoperative pain, lack of postoperative ileus, and early hospital discharge. For the surgeon, there is improved visualization of the surgical anatomy and greater participation for the entire operating team, who can watch the monitor during the surgical procedure. Laparoscopic platform technology is merging with robotics and image guidance systems, which will likely lead to improved surgical accuracy and lower patient morbidity.
