A New Development in Advanced Technology for Minimally Invasive Surgery

Abstract

A new technology for minimally invasive surgery such as natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) or single port surgery (SPS) has been introduced over the world. Laser-related new modalities such as confocal endoscopy, photodynamic therapy or image-guided laser therapy are also paid attention to as the most positive future medicine. However, it is very hard for us to obtain an approval as a medical device from the Japanese Government. It is now mandatory to make a long-term strategy for the worldwide marketing by collaboration among the industry, government and academic people.