Laparoscopic general surgery: current status and future potential.

Abstract

In the 1990s, a sweeping change has occurred in general surgery driven by patients demanding cosmetically appealing incisions and speedier recuperation. Established surgeons have swarmed to academic and industry-sponsored courses to learn basic laparoscopic techniques. Hospitals have been forced to redesign operating suites and retrain nurses to keep pace with the technological changes. Industry has responded to powerful market forces with new high-tech equipment and a substantial investment for research and development. More and more, surgeons are collaborating with gastroenterologists, sonographers, and interventional radiologists with the hope of advancing minimally invasive surgical techniques. This article highlights the current status of laparoscopic surgery in the United States and foretells exciting advances for the future [1].