For small-scale sculptures in the early 1990s, Mr. Othoniel made disembodied orifices from wax and sulfur.

WSJ: Jean-Michel Othoniel's Retrospective My Way in Brooklyn

Thanks to fibre-optics, it is now possible to illuminate many of the body's remotest organs and darkest orifices.

ECONOMIST: Medicinal light-swords

The concept of using natural orifices is not new, said Dr. Mark Talamini, professor and chairman of the Department of Surgery at UCSD.

CNN: Use of natural openings may ease weight-loss surgery

Weight-loss procedures using natural orifices are under way in clinical trials.

CNN: Use of natural openings may ease weight-loss surgery