Minimally Invasive Surgery: Principles, Clinical Outcomes and Impact on Postoperative Functional Recovery – A Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Many operations once performed through large incisions are now routinely completed with laparoscopic or other minimally invasive methods, and the use of robotic assistance continues to expand. Postoperative functional recovery is increasingly emphasized alongside morbidity, mortality, and oncologic safety.

Aim: To review core principles of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and summarize reported clinical outcomes and early functional recovery across multiple specialties.

Methods: A narrative review of PubMed-indexed randomized trials, prospective audits, and systematic reviews and meta-analyses was performed, focusing on colorectal, abdominal wall, urologic, gynecologic, thoracic, bariatric, and selected cardiac procedures. Evidence on learning curves, conversion, perioperative stress and inflammatory responses, and comparisons between laparoscopy and robotics was integrated.

Results: Across many procedures, MIS has frequently been associated with lower short-term pain and opioid requirements, shorter hospitalization, and earlier mobilization compared with open surgery, although effects appear procedure and context dependent. Conversion from a minimally invasive procedure to an open operation, meaning cases that begin laparoscopically or robotically but must be completed through a larger incision, remains clinically relevant and may influence reported outcomes.

Conclusions: The current literature generally suggests that MIS is an important component of contemporary surgical care and a foundation for ongoing technological integration. Additional high-quality comparative studies and health-economic analyses may help define where robotic assistance provides meaningful added value.

Keywords: minimally invasive surgery; laparoscopic surgery; postoperative recovery; surgical outcomes; functional recovery; robotic surgery; clinical complications