Women's positive perception of transvaginal NOTES surgery

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Patient Perception Studies
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has become standard care, with natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) poised for a similar revolution.
• NOTES offers advantages over traditional MIS by avoiding abdominal incisions, thus eliminating associated abdominal wall complications.
• No prior data existed on women's perceptions and consent willingness for NOTES transvaginal procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate women's perceptions and willingness to consent to transvaginal NOTES surgery.
• To identify specific concerns and preferences of women regarding this novel surgical approach.

Main Methods:

• A survey of 100 women was conducted.
• Participants received written information on MIS and NOTES transvaginal surgery.
• A 10-question survey assessed concerns and opinions about the procedure.

Main Results:

• 68% of women expressed willingness for future transvaginal NOTES procedures.
• Primary motivators included decreased hernia risk (90%) and operative pain (93%).
• Concerns about fertility and sexual health were higher in nulliparous women and those under 45 (p < 0.05). Infectious issues were a concern for those unwilling to undergo the procedure (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Significant public interest exists for NOTES surgery, with women showing receptiveness to the technique.
• There is a clear need for early reporting of outcomes data to inform both clinicians and patients about this emerging technology.