[Minimally invasive surgery in childhood]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Surgical Innovation
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Minimally invasive surgical techniques, including laparoscopy and thoracoscopy, are now standard in adult surgery.
• These advanced techniques are increasingly adopted in pediatric surgery, mirroring adult trends.
• Pediatric surgery encompasses a broad range of congenital and acquired conditions in patients from neonates to adolescents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the established role and versatility of minimally invasive surgery in pediatric surgical interventions.
• To assess the extent to which minimally invasive approaches are replacing conventional open procedures in pediatric care.
• To highlight the broad applicability of minimally invasive surgery across the pediatric age spectrum.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of minimally invasive techniques in pediatric surgery.
• Analysis of indications and applications of laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures in children.
• Comparison of minimally invasive versus conventional open surgical outcomes in pediatric patients.

Main Results:

• Minimally invasive surgery is widely established in pediatric surgery for diverse indications.
• Laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures are frequently employed, partially replacing open surgeries.
• Nearly all pediatric surgical operations have been performed via minimally invasive routes, demonstrating broad suitability.

Conclusions:

• Minimally invasive surgery is a versatile and established approach in pediatric surgery.
• While highly effective, not all minimally invasive techniques are universally superior to conventional open procedures.
• The application of minimally invasive surgery in pediatric care continues to expand, offering significant benefits.