Hybrid Surgery: Combined Laparoscopy and Natural Orifice Surgery

Hybrid procedures combine laparoscopy and natural orifice surgery techniques. Some groups are currently using hybrid procedures to investigate the concepts of pure natural orifice surgery. Thus far, hybrid procedures have validated the safety of transgastric peritoneoscopy, although improved instrumentation is imperative before widespread clinical applications. As technical improvements develop from hybrid surgery, gastrointestinal endoscopy and abdominal surgery could be revolutionized.