Advances in minimally invasive surgical techniques, technology, and instrumentation have fostered the application of minimally invasive surgery to the management of colorectal surgery. Colorectal procedures through a laparoscopic, robotic or NOTES approach are feasible and appear to offer significant benefits in comparison to the open procedures. Reducing the abdominal trauma and the physiological impact may be key strategies in achieving optimal outcomes.
A safe transition from the current approach into the new technology is mandatory, as well as a full commitment of surgeons in the development and application of new technologies and procedures.