Minimally Invasive Robotic Association 2nd International Congress: The union league club, New York, NY, USA, 18-20 January 2007

Background: The Minimally Invasive Robotic Association (MIRA) is an international organization that aims to provide a cross-specialty forum in which minimal access surgeons can share their experience of the new and emerging discipline of robotic surgery. This is an overview of the 2nd International Congress. Methods: There was heavy emphasis on short presentations that allowed maximum opportunity for delegates to participate, share experience and exchange ideas. Results: Over 90 presentations were enjoyed by delegates over the 3 day event, each stimulating lively discussion from the audience. Experience of robotic urological, general, gynaecological, paediatric, cardiac and thoracic surgery was presented. There were also several presentations of new technology in the field. Conclusions: Robotic surgery is being taken up by a diverse range of surgeons across the world. Early success in urological surgery is beginning to be mirrored in other surgical specialties. Robotic procedures are evolving to include new benefits and new technologies are beginning to emerge which will further expand the role and capabilities of robotic surgery. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.