Minimally invasive surgery refers to surgical techniques that limit the size of incisions needed, or has a short recovery time. When a medical device is placed within a patient during such a surgery, it is a minimally invasive device. Many procedures involve the use of arthroscopic or laparoscopic devices, and remote-control manipulation of instruments with indirect observation through an endoscope or large display panel. The surgery is usually carried out through the skin or through a small body cavity or anatomical opening and can involve a robot-assisted system.
