Future trends in minimally invasive surgery

The article "Future trends in minimally invasive surgery" is the basis for this AORN Journal independent study. The behavioral objectives and examination for this program were prepared by Rebecca Holm, RN, MSN, CNOR, clinical editor, with consultation from Susan Bakewell, RN, MS, BC, education program professional, Center for Perioperative Education. Participants receive feedback on incorrect answers. Each applicant who successfully completes this study will receive a certificate of completion. The deadline for submitting this study is Dec 31, 2008. Complete the examination answer sheet and learner evaluation found on pages 1021-1022 and mail with appropriate lee to

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BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES

After reading and studying the article on minimally invasive surgery (MIS), nurses will be able to

1. explain the scope of MIS within the context of its historical development,

2. discuss current trends in MIS,

3. identify issues that affect the MIS learning curve, and

4. describe recommendations that will help facility managers plan for the technological changes brought about by MIS.

The cost of healthcare in the United States is climbing annually at a staggering rate, currently totaling more than $2.2 trillion? The United States is projected to spend approximately 16.3% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on health care by the year 2008.1 This amounts to $7,768 per person, almost double the $4,177 per capita amount spent in 1998. (1) With an average annual growth rate of 7.3% from 2001 to 2011, health care expenditures could reach $2.8 trillion in 2011. (2) Expanding 2.5% faster than the GDP, the cost of healthcare will consume close to 17% of the GDP by 2011, the highest percentage in history. (3) Such expenditure growth concerns people in both the public and private sectors and has prompted aggressive and widespread efforts to manage healthcare expenses.

Technology often is blamed for rising healthcare costs; however, some medical advances, such as endoscopic surgery, are critical to improving health care efficiency, enhancing the quality of care provided, and decreasing overall expenses. Patients in today's healthcare facilities are experiencing the benefits of advanced technology as evidenced by higher quality-of-life scores after minimally invasive surgery (MIS) compared to traditional open surgery. (4-6) Hospital stays are shorter, and often the need for overnight stay is eliminated. (5) Postoperative pain is less and patients are able to return to work sooner. (4-6) This is not only an advantage to patients, but to the healthcare economy as well.