Update on natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery

Area of Science:

• Minimally invasive surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical innovation

Background:

• Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) represents a significant evolution in minimally invasive procedures.
• Initially confined to experimental settings, NOTES has progressed to human clinical trials, demonstrating its growing feasibility and application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the current landscape of NOTES procedures worldwide.
• To identify and discuss the limitations and potential future directions for NOTES, with a specific focus on transgastric interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies and clinical trials on NOTES procedures.
• Analysis of the spectrum of available NOTES techniques and their applications.
• Discussion of challenges and opportunities for advancing NOTES technology and practice.

Main Results:

• NOTES procedures are increasingly being performed globally, moving beyond experimental phases.
• The transgastric approach is a key area of focus for current and future NOTES development.
• Various limitations exist, but avenues for improvement and expansion of NOTES are being actively explored.

Conclusions:

• NOTES has transitioned into clinical practice, offering a less invasive surgical alternative.
• Continued research and technological advancements are crucial for overcoming current limitations and expanding the scope of NOTES procedures.
• The transgastric approach holds significant promise for the future of NOTES.