Lessons learned from the evolution of the laparoscopic revolution.

After 100 years of practice, the face of general surgery changed forever when laparoscopic cholecystectomy was introduced. The impact was felt in how new procedures were taught and learned, proficiency determined, and credentials established. In addition, the revolution of laparoscopic surgery brought to bear ethical considerations and the harsh reality of medical legal and economic ramifications of new technology introduction. Finally, minimally invasive surgery challenged dogma of traditional perioperative care, allowing streamlining of postoperative recovery.