Advances in Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery is a surgical technique, characterized by smaller incisions, quicker healing, lower pain and reduced risk of infection. Such procedures have been made possible due to advancement in medical technologies. These procedures are guided by laparoscopic or arthroscopic devices, large scale display panel and remote-control manipulation of instruments. Refractive eye surgery, cryosurgery, keyhole surgery, stereotactic surgery, the Nuss procedure, etc. are some examples of minimally invasive surgical procedures. Laparoscopic surgery is performed within the abdominal or pelvic cavities, and thoracoscopic surgery is done on the chest or thoracic cavity. Minimally invasive spine surgeries such as laminotomy, artificial disc replacement, anterior cervical discectomy, laminectomy, etc. are performed to treat degenerative disc disease, disc fractures, herniation, tumors, infections, etc. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the theories and practices of minimally invasive surgeries. It aims to present researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.