Pediatric minimally invasive surgery: laparoscopy and thoracoscopy in infants and children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric surgery
• Minimally invasive surgery
• Surgical innovation

Background:

• Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) presents numerous advantages for pediatric patients, including smaller incisions, reduced infection risk, and shorter hospital stays.
• However, the benefits of MIS are challenged by increased monetary and risk-based costs that disproportionately affect smaller patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in pediatric minimally invasive surgery.
• To present evidence supporting the benefits of MIS for infants and children.
• To highlight the mechanical and physiological challenges associated with performing MIS in small pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on pediatric minimally invasive surgery.
• Analysis of evidence for patient benefits.
• Discussion of technical and physiological challenges encountered in MIS for infants and children.

Main Results:

• Minimally invasive surgery offers significant benefits for pediatric patients, such as improved outcomes and reduced recovery times.
• The application of MIS in infants and small children presents unique and substantial mechanical and physiological challenges.
• The cost-benefit analysis of MIS in pediatrics is complex and varies with patient size.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric minimally invasive surgery has demonstrated considerable benefits but is not yet the standard of care due to unique challenges.
• Further research and technological advancements are necessary to overcome the obstacles of MIS in very young patients.
• Addressing the specific risks and costs associated with MIS in infants and children is crucial for its wider adoption.