Preface

This is an exciting time to be a surgeon. The field of reproductive medicine has undergone many changes over the past three decades. Gynecologic endoscopic surgery, in particular, has seen tremendous advances during this period. Breakthroughs in video technology, instrumentation, adhesion prevention, and computer-enhanced technology have certainly allowed surgeons to routinely perform a number of procedures endoscopically rather than by laparotomies. These innovations have contributed to faster recovery time, smaller scars, less adhesion formation, fewer complications, lower cost, and, most importantly, better results. The editors deemed it necessary to update their previous edition due to popular demand and to reflect the rapid advancement in this field. With the contributions of authoritative figures in their respective areas of expertise, many new additions can be found in this book. The inclusion of hysteroscopy in the title and the dedication of a new section on hysteroscopy are meant to emphasize the importance of such surgery in the gynecologic practice today. A new section on fertility treatment and procedures reflects the rapid development in this area. As minimally invasive surgery and natural orifice surgery are becoming more and more accepted and applied in the management of gynecologic malignancy, a significant portion of the book is devoted to this topic to bring the latest information and controversies to our readers.