MINIMALLY INVASIVE CANCER SURGERY: INDICATIONS AND OUTCOMES

OBJECTIVES: To review the current evidence on the impact of minimally invasive, robotic-assisted cancer surgery (thoracic, gastrointestinal, gynecologic, genitourinary) on surgical outcomes and quality of life. DATA SOURCES: Journal articles, research reports, state of the science papers, and clinical guidelines. CONCLUSION: Minimally invasive cancer surgery is an important and integral component of the comprehensive care of cancer patients. Current evidence suggests that minimally invasive procedures confer equivalent and potentially superior advantage in select surgical outcomes without compromising oncologic outcomes. There is a paucity of evidence for the impact of minimally invasive procedures on functional outcomes and quality of life. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Perioperative nursing care in minimally invasive cancer surgery should focus on preparing patients and families for shorter hospital stay, with continued support for postoperative recovery following discharge.