Our Summary

This research paper discusses the evolution of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), which has developed over the last 5,000 years from basic hands-on techniques to advanced methods using robots and artificial intelligence (AI). These advancements have improved the accuracy of surgery, reduced physical harm to patients, and led to better patient outcomes.

However, with these advancements come new challenges, specifically legal and ethical issues. The complexity of these new surgical technologies and procedures has increased the risk of malpractice claims, which can have serious financial and professional consequences for healthcare providers. Therefore, it’s important to have strategies in place to manage these risks, such as thorough surgical training, proper certification processes, and adherence to clinical standards.

The paper is divided into three parts: (1) the history and key technological developments of MIS; (2) the current state and future direction of MIS, with a focus on the use of AI and robotics; and (3) the ethical and legal issues related to the advancements in MIS, including informed consent, surgeon liability, and patient safety.

The paper emphasizes the urgent need for the development of legal and ethical frameworks that can keep up with technological progress. It’s important to strike a balance between innovation and ethical and legal protections to ensure progress and safety in modern surgical practice.

FAQs

  1. What are the key technological developments in Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) over the years?
  2. What are the ethical and legal challenges associated with the advancements in MIS, and how can they be managed?
  3. How does the use of AI and robotics influence the current state and future direction of MIS?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about minimally invasive surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, such as fasting before the surgery and stopping certain medications as directed. This will help ensure a successful procedure and smooth recovery. Additionally, patients should communicate any concerns or questions they have with their healthcare team to ensure they are fully informed and comfortable with the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended minimally invasive surgery include those who require procedures that can be performed using small incisions and specialized instruments, resulting in less pain, shorter recovery times, and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery. Some common conditions that can be treated with minimally invasive surgery include:

  • Gallbladder disease
  • Hernias
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Colorectal conditions
  • Gynecological conditions
  • Urological conditions
  • Orthopedic conditions
  • Cardiac conditions

Patients who are considered good candidates for minimally invasive surgery are those who are in overall good health, have realistic expectations about the procedure, and have discussed their options with their healthcare provider. However, not all patients may be suitable for minimally invasive surgery, and the decision to undergo a minimally invasive procedure should be made on a case-by-case basis after a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Timeline

Before minimally invasive surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a healthcare provider and discusses treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to determine if they are a suitable candidate for minimally invasive surgery.
  3. Patient receives education on the procedure, risks, benefits, and recovery process.
  4. Patient schedules surgery and prepares for the procedure by following pre-operative instructions.

After minimally invasive surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the minimally invasive surgery procedure, which typically involves smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and shorter recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
  2. Patient is monitored closely post-operatively for any complications or adverse reactions.
  3. Patient follows a tailored recovery plan, which may include physical therapy, pain management, and follow-up appointments.
  4. Patient experiences a faster recovery time, less pain, and improved outcomes compared to traditional open surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about minimally invasive surgery include:

  1. What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery compared to traditional surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with minimally invasive surgery?
  3. How experienced are you in performing minimally invasive surgeries?
  4. What specific training and certifications do you have in minimally invasive surgery techniques?
  5. Will there be a team of specialists assisting you during the surgery?
  6. How long is the recovery time for minimally invasive surgery compared to traditional surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options to minimally invasive surgery for my condition?
  8. What is the success rate of minimally invasive surgery for my specific condition?
  9. How will my pain be managed during and after the surgery?
  10. What follow-up care will be necessary after the surgery?

It’s important for patients to be informed about their treatment options and to feel comfortable asking their doctor any questions or expressing any concerns they may have about minimally invasive surgery.

Reference

Authors: Jeganathan JR, Jegasothy R, Sia WT. Journal: J Robot Surg. 2025 Jul 21;19(1):408. doi: 10.1007/s11701-025-02589-7. PMID: 40691391