[The value of clinical and experimental results for surgical practice]

Since John Hunter first applied the scientific approach to surgery in the late 18th century, it has been raised from the humble level of a handicraft to a highly experimental science. Although surgical research is essential, the practice of surgery has always been much influenced by the basic sciences. The clinical significance of experimental data has often only been recognized years later: research to no pre-defined end is also of utmost importance. Today in a time of cost explosion and overabundance of information cooperative and statistically well-planned studies are essential to optimize financial and physical resources. Fields of increasing interest such as gene technology, immunology and preventive medicine will certainly influence surgery in the near future. Minimal invasive and interventional techniques have already started to revolutionize surgical practice.