The scope of minimally invasive pediatric surgery (MIPS) and its influence on reduced length of hospitalization.

Minimally invasive pediatric surgery (MIPS) is a new dimension in pediatric surgery. The scope of methods replacing large operations in children by smaller endo- or laparoscopic interventions is presented.Electromagnetic double-segmental elongation has achieved auto anastomosis in 16 out of 22 children with long gap esophageal atresias since 1975. A new radial laser-applicator with entirely lateral radiation has led to a method for endoscopic occlusion of esophagotracheal and other fistulas with a 100% success rate in a minipig-model. Our experience with 54 laparoscopic interventions including large bowel resections, hiatus hernia, and a new technique for pyloromyotomy documents that laparoscopy halves hospitalisation-periods and may well become the most rapidly growing branch of pediatric surgery.