Surgical innovation.

Innovation has been an integral part of the progress of surgery. Technological advances have given a different dimension to the intricacies of modern surgery. While some innovations have been ground-breaking, others made only a transitory impression. This article attempts to distinguish between a true innovation and a technical refinement and explores the ethos and socio-economic factors that propel surgical innovation. The role of validation and regulation of these innovative procedures in producing improved outcomes are also discussed.