Minimally Invasive Surgery: The Emerging Role in Gastric Cancer

Minimally invasive surgical techniques are an emerging option in the staging and management of gastric cancer in the United States and elsewhere. Although much of the current knowledge about these approaches and their outcomes has been generated in Eastern countries, experience in the United States is growing. This article discusses both laparoscopic and robotic approaches to gastric cancer management. Important aspects of patient selection are emphasized. Surgical and oncologic outcomes are presented and compared with traditional open gastrectomy. Technical considerations are discussed along with comments on the learning curve to achieve proficiency in each approach.