Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery: history and current development

Abstract

Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) represents an innovative advancement in minimally invasive surgery, utilizing natural body orifices to access the peritoneal cavity to minimize surgical trauma, reduce postoperative pain, and avoid visible scars. Since its inception, NOTES has faced challenges such as technical complexity and securing safe access closure, which initially limited its widespread adoption. However, advancements in endoscopic techniques and technology, closure devices, and hybrid approaches may revitalize its clinical utility. Hybrid NOTES, particularly transvaginal techniques, has demonstrated significant benefits, including reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and improved cosmesis, without compromising safety or efficacy. Innovations such as flexible endoscopic platforms, robotic assistance, and novel suturing techniques address previous limitations and enable broader applications across various gastrointestinal indications. Comparative studies have shown comparable outcomes between NOTES and traditional laparoscopy, with specific advantages in terms of patient comfort and recovery time. As technology evolves, NOTES continues to expand its clinical indications, and its future holds promise with the integration of robotics and artificial intelligence. Further research and structured training programs are crucial to overcome existing barriers and ensure safe and effective implementation in diverse clinical settings.