This text provides a clear, reproducible, step-by-step guide for each colorectal surgery operation.  The format follows that of both a “how to” manual as well as an algorithm-based guide to allow the reader to understand the thought process behind the proposed treatment strategy.  Each chapter includes both operative technical details as well as perioperative “tips and tricks” that the authors utilize in the management of these complex surgical patients.  In addition, it addresses the optimal “next step” in dealing with more challenging situations such as pregnancy, emergent surgery, the elderly, and the obese patient.  Throughout the text, each author provides an ongoing narrative of his/her individual surgical techniques along with color illustrations and diagrams to “personally” take the reader through the crucial steps of the procedure, as well as key points of patient care inherent to that topic. Additionally, where appropriate, links to online or downloadable videos will givethe reader an up-front look into technical aspects of traditional straight laparoscopic and hand-assisted minimally invasive surgery, as well as NOTES, transanal, robotic, single incision colectomy and combined laparoscopic-endoscopic resection.

Minimally Invasive Approaches to Colon and Rectal Disease: Technique and Best Practices will be of great utility to colorectal, general and oncologic surgeons who want to learn or improve their minimally invasive skills in colorectal surgery. Furthermore, this text will be of particular interest to the surgeons-in-training, and the general and colorectal surgeon who is often called upon to manage a variety of colorectal surgery conditions through a minimally invasive approach.