Conventional surgical procedures consist of three main stages: cutting the patient open; removing or repairing an organ or tissue; and closing the patient up again. In minimal access surgery, the impact of the first and last of these is reduced as far as possible, either by gaining access to the body through natural orifices or by operating through very small holes (typically 5-15 mm across) cut into the body. The development of fibre optic light sources, miniature video cameras and specially designed (e.g. cutting, grasping, stapling) tools has allowed increasingly complex surgery to be performed, with the surgeon being guided by high resolution, magnified video images.

Other terms for MAS include minimally invasive surgery, keyhole surgery and pinhole surgery. Equipment needs vary from one type of operation to another. Most applications require a basic package comprising imaging, surgical and other medical equipment, as well as access to backup facilities.The most recent video imaging systems - based on miniaturised HD cameras and fibreoptic light sources - provide high quality, magnified colour images. They are displayed on two or more high resolution TV monitors to ensure that all members of the operating team (surgeon, anaesthetist, ‘scrub’ nurse, etc.) can also observe.

By using high end equipments, this surgical procedure translates into faster recovery, lesser post-operative pain and minimal post-surgical complications.