Since the first animal experimental laparoscopy in 1902, minimal access techniques have revolutionized surgery. Using the natural orifice dates back to at least the second century when Soranus performed a vaginal hysterectomy. The main difference between traditional endolumenal surgery and the translumenal approach of natural-orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is the intentional puncture of a healthy organ in NOTES to access a cavity or other organ. The aim of this review was to examine the past, present, and potential future role of NOTES in the context of other developments in minimal access surgery. NOTES is at an early stage in its development and a convincing benefit over laparoscopy has not been demonstrated. Concerns regarding complications, for example of viscerotomy closure, have limited the widespread uptake of pure NOTES. However, it is likely that technological advances for NOTES surgery will enhance conventional laparoscopic and endoscopic techniques.