Abstract
Natural Orifices Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) is a novel, still experimental approach which uses the body's natural openings to access the organs to be operated on. The most common site of access is the gastrointestinal tract wherein an artificial entry into the abdominal cavity is created in the stomach or rectum.
Transvaginal or transvesical approach can also be used. The authors mention the history of this method and the current experimental phase both in animals and in clinical trials.
They also present an overview of the individual centres in the Czech Republic dealing experimentally with this method. In conclusion, they evaluate the present status and the future prospects of NOTES.