You may have heard of ‘keyhole’ surgery, or your doctor may have discussed using a minimally invasive technique for your surgery. As technology advances this type of surgery is becoming more common. But what is minimally invasive surgery, when can it be used and what are the benefits?   What is minimally invasive surgery? Surgery is called minimally invasive when it is performed through very small incisions (cuts), or no cuts at all for some types of procedures. A flexible telescopic instrument, with a light and a video camera, is used to view the operation site on a monitor screen. Small instruments are then inserted through small openings to perform the surgery. This is different from traditional open surgery, where a larger incision or cut is required for surgeons to see the area being operated on directly.   What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery? Minimally invasive procedures mean that less skin and muscle needs to be cut, with the following benefits compared to traditional open surgery: ● Less trauma and pain ● Less bleeding ● Lower risk of infection ● Reduced risk of complications ● Faster recovery ● Shorter hospital stay ● Less scarring   What types of minimally invasive surgery are there? Surgical techniques are continually advancing. Currently, the 3 main types of minimally invasive surgery are: ● Endoscopic surgery – uses a flexible tube with a small camera at the end is used (an endoscope) which may be inserted into the through a natural body opening, like the mouth, or a small incision. Tiny surgical instruments are manipulated through the endoscope to perform the operation. ● Laparoscopy – uses a modified endoscope (laparoscope), inserted through a small incision in the belly (abdomen) to guide the surgeon as he performs the surgery, looking at a monitor screen. ● Robot-assisted surgery (robotic surgery) – instead of manipulating surgical tools manually, the surgeon controls a high-definition camera and robotic arms while sitting at a nearby computer console.   Which surgeries can be done using minimally invasive techniques? Minimally invasive techniques can be used for many types of surgery, including: ● Gastrointestinal surgery ● Cancer surgery ● Some types of heart or lung surgery ● Hip or knee replacements ● Gynaecology or urology procedures ● Kidney transplant surgery   Is Minimally Invasive Surgery suitable for me? There are many benefits of minimally invasive surgery. However, it is not recommended for all types of operations. If you require surgery, discuss the options with your surgeon. They will be able to advise you about the benefits and possible risks of any procedure.