Evidence-based minimally invasive surgery in oncology

During the last 15 years, the minimally invasive approach has become (and most likely will remain) the standard tool of the general surgeon. This publication contains a selection of articles concentrating on the role of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in oncology. First, basic aspects of immunology and oncology are considered as they will have an impact on the application of MIS in the field of oncologic surgery. Today, routine and/or selective staging of gastrointestinal tumors by laparoscopy is used in many surgical units. However, there is an ongoing debate whether laparoscopic oncologic resection worsens, does not influence or even improves the prognosis of cancer patients. Several papers thus focus on evidence-based MIS as a way to assess its merits and dangers compared to other interventional techniques. As is the case with many other procedures, the knowledge and skills of the surgeon, as well as case load, constitute a major prognostic factor for the patient. Discussing topical issues related to MIS in oncologic surgery, the publication at hand is a valuable tool for the surgeon interested in or already employing MIS.