To present the conception, contents and development of "minimally invasive surgery", related data from literature were collected and analyzed, and some points of view are emphasized as follows: (1) Localized or minimal invasion of operation is a constant pursuit of the surgeon; (2) Minimally invasive surgery is a new conception, it includes not only laparoscopicsurgery, but also endoscopic surgery, interventional therapy, etc; (3) Minimally invasive surgery is not a branch of surgery, it is just a supplement of "traditional surgery". Minimally invasive surgery will develop persistently and the surgeon should actively involve in minimally invasive surgery with proper indications.