minimally invasive

American  

Or minimal invasive

adjective

1. (of medical treatments or procedures) requiring only a small incision or the insertion of an instrument into a body cavity; involving minimal damage of body tissue.

   minimally invasive endoscopy.

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minimally invasive British  

adjective

1. (of surgery) involving as little incision into the body as possible, through the use of techniques such as keyhole surgery and laser treatment

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Etymology

Origin of minimally invasive

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

The state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania described this as a "minimally invasive" approach - but wildlife experts said any interventions carried considerable risk after previous rescue attempts failed.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

“Given the complexity of minimally invasive cardiac surgery, we are planning a measured rollout to support training, education, and adoption,” CEO David J. Rosa said on a conference call.

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

This includes bariatric surgery, which has been around since the 1950s, or newer minimally invasive procedures like the endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 15, 2026

Success could lead to a minimally invasive treatment that lasts longer and reduces the need for repeat procedures.

From Science Daily • Jan. 2, 2026

Instead of removing it, surgeons performed a cryoablation, a minimally invasive procedure that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissue.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 2, 2025