Past, present and future of minimally invasive and robotic surgery

This chapter delves into the transformative history of videolaparoscopy, spearheaded by Dr. Camran Nezhat, and its pivotal role in reshaping surgical practices. From overcoming skepticism and misperceptions to challenging entrenched surgical norms, Nezhat's groundbreaking work ushered in a new era, fundamentally altering how surgeons approach endometriosis and other complex procedures. The narrative unfolds across decades, navigating through controversies, legal battles, and paradigm shifts in surgical philosophy. Videolaparoscopy emerges not only as a technical innovation but as a catalyst for reevaluating patient rights, pain management, and disease states. The chapter highlights the profound impact on surgical morbidity, mortality, and patient outcomes, positioning videolaparoscopy as a global human rights movement in 20th-century medicine.