ABSTRACT
References 492
1. INTRODUCTION
Innovations in endoscopic technique and equipment continue to broaden the range of
applications in minimal access surgery (MAS). However, in the adult population
many of these procedures have yet to overtake the traditional open approach due to
their technical difficulty. Difficulties remain in achieving dexterity and precision of
instrument control within the confines of a limited operating space. These difficulties
are further compounded by the need to operate from a video image. In the pediatric
population, such challenges are amplified by the significantly smaller workspace, as
well as the size and delicacy of tissues. The application of robotic technology has
the potential to contribute significantly to the advancement of minimal access pediatric
surgery.
