Camran Nezhat, MD, FACOG, FACS is a world-renowned minimally invasive and robotic surgeon specializing in endometriosis. Widely recognized as the father of modern-day surgery, he invented and pioneered video-assisted endoscopy, which has revolutionized surgery by replacing many open procedures with safer, less invasive techniques that continue to benefit millions worldwide. In 2020, Dr. Nezhat received the American Medical Association’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award, for his trailblazing contributions to the science and art of medicine. AMA President Susan R. Bailey, MD, praised him as an innovator whose work “has fundamentally changed contemporary surgery and opened a path for surgeons around the world to help their patients.” Dr. Nezhat was the first to perform many of the most advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures, proving that most surgeries once requiring large incisions could be performed via video-laparoscopy. In the 1970s and 1980s, he began experimenting with large video cameras in the operating room and urged device companies to manufacture surgical cameras—laying the groundwork for the video-assisted techniques that define modern minimally invasive surgery. He has long advocated that wherever in the body a cavity exists—or can be created—minimally invasive surgery is possible, provided surgeons have the proper skill and instrumentation. As medical historian James Carter, MD, wrote: “Camran Nezhat has influenced almost every aspect of our laparoscopic lives. His vision, perseverance, and humanistic focus have propelled our field away from the established yet awkward ‘single eye’ and mostly diagnostic laparoscopy to his method of operative laparoscopy, which has revolutionized modern-day surgery. Also, his prediction and claim that almost all open surgeries could be and should be avoided is increasingly becoming a reality. Indeed, he has paved the way through the years by his pioneering work of successful management of many complex surgical pathologies laparoscopically for the first time and proving that it is possible and probably preferable.” In the 1990s, he collaborated with robotic pioneers Ajit Shah and Phil Green on the development of the da Vinci robot, helping shape many of its applications. His innovations also include vessel sealing and cutting devices, suction irrigation instruments, surgical lasers, safe abdominal entry techniques, and more. He holds more than 30 patents for his inventions, which have transformed surgical practice globally. Beyond his innovations, Dr. Nezhat has made profound contributions to education and mentorship. Since 1982, he has taught postgraduate courses and trained countless physicians who now lead in their own communities. He has authored eight textbooks and hundreds of peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, solidifying his role as both a pioneer and a teacher in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. His commitment to patients extends beyond the operating room. He is the founder of the Worldwide Endometriosis March (EndoMarch), a global grassroots movement uniting more than 60 countries to raise awareness about endometriosis and advance non-invasive diagnostics, prevention, and treatment. He is also the founder of the American & Global College of Endometriosis Specialists (AGCES), dedicated to advancing excellence in endometriosis and adenomyosis care through education, innovation, and collaboration. Dr. Nezhat’s lifetime of innovation, advocacy, and teaching has transformed surgery into a less invasive, more patient-centered discipline. His work continues to inspire surgeons and improve outcomes for patients around the world.