Is Smaller Better? Minimally Invasive Oncologic Surgery Options Discussed at NCCN ...(e is no data from randomized controlled ...),Health

"The lack of evidence-based data for the majority of minimally invasive surgical options is one of the current shortcomings in the field," stated Dr. D'Amico.

Another cause of debate includes the training and credentialing of physicians who perform minimally invasive procedures. Dr. D'Amico stated that the learning curve for physicians being trained needs to be addressed. Lastly, Dr. D'Amico touched upon the controversy of using minimally invasive surgery as a marketing tool particularly in the field of robotics, which can lend itself to eye-catching publicity.

The future of minimally invasive surgery will likely see an expanded use of robotics as well as an increased interest in a new technique called natural orifice surgery. Dr. D'Amico explained that natural orifice surgery is when surgeons conduct surgery through the natural orifices in the body such as the mouth, nose, or rectum. Since there are no incisions made on the body, the benefits are a reduced risk of infection and a quicker recovery, stated Dr. D'Amico.

In conclusion, Dr. D'Amico stressed again that improved outcomes should drive the utilization of minimally invasive procedures and that oncologic principles must be preserved.

"There is continued progress of minimally invasive oncology surgery," said Dr. D'Amico, "but also the need for further evolution to optimize morbidity and oncologic outcomes. The question we need to ask ourselves is not 'what can be done', but 'what should be done'."

About the National Comprehensive Cancer Network

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), a not-for-profit alliance of 21 of the world's leading cancer centers, is dedicated to improving the quality and effectiveness of care provided to patie
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