“Advancements in Minimally Invasive Surgery for GI Cancers “

GI cancers are broadly divided into 3 parts namely Hepatobiliary pancreatic or HPB system, Colorectal and UGI ie Upper GI system which consists of cancers of Liver Bile duct gallbladder Pancreas duodenum or Small Intestine , Colon , Rectum , Anus And Oesophagus , stomach and Spleen . Also takes into consideration rarer cancers like Retroperitoneum and parietal wall .

With more and more advanced science now these surgeries are frequently done by Laparoscopy or Robotic or by Hybrid method of Laparoscopy assisted. Esophageal Cancers need Laparoscopy and VATS combinations .
They need more advanced Electrical and Ultrasonic or other energy source dissection devices like Harmonic , Ligasure , Force , Focus , CUSA , Water jet, RFA, Microwave, Cryoprobes , etc for succesful dissection, division and sealing of Blood vessels. More use of Endostaplers for dividing and joining of Intestines .
The learning curve for these surgeries are longer so are the duration and expenses but the definite advantage in many though not all cases , of larger better vision, More focused dissections , earlier recovery , less pain , earlier mobility and discharges from Hospitals.

But then , Case selection is also very important to justify success equal to or better than conventional open surgeries.