Advances and Controversies in Minimally Invasive Surgery, An Issue of Surgical Clinics (The Clinics: Surgery)

The general surgeon was first introduced to laparoscopy nearly 20 years ago. In these past two decades, there has been an evolution in the indications, approaches, and outcomes for the surgical treatment of many conditions and diseases. The debate about the optimal approach continues. Despite all of the advances that have been made during the 'evolution of the laparoscopic revolution', there is still progress to be made. This issue will examine the history of the minimally invasive surgical approach to a variety of conditions, ongoing areas of controversy, and future directions.