Danish surgeons' views on minimally invasive surgery

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Innovation
• Laparoscopic Techniques

Background:

• Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and natural orifice translumenal surgery (NOTES) are gaining popularity due to potential benefits like improved cosmesis and faster recovery.
• Surgeons' attitudes toward these novel minimally invasive techniques are crucial for their adoption and integration into standard surgical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the attitudes of Danish surgeons regarding single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and natural orifice translumenal surgery (NOTES).
• To understand the factors influencing surgeons' preferences and willingness to adopt these advanced minimally invasive procedures.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based study was conducted among members of The Danish Society of Surgeons and The Danish Society of Young Surgeons.
• A 26-item questionnaire was electronically distributed to 1253 surgeons, with 352 (approximately 30%) completing the survey.

Main Results:

• Surgeons prioritize minimizing complication risk and ensuring short convalescence above cosmesis and local anesthesia options.
• If undergoing cholecystectomy, 35.5% would choose SILS and 14.5% would choose NOTES, assuming equal risk to traditional laparoscopy.
• Willingness to learn SILS and NOTES was 44.6% and 32.7% respectively, with higher interest among less experienced and more surgically active surgeons.

Conclusions:

• Risk of complications is a paramount concern for surgeons considering SILS and NOTES.
• Further research is essential to address and mitigate potential risks before establishing SILS and NOTES as standard surgical care.