Turkish surgeons' experiences and perception about single-incision laparoscopic surgery.

OBJECTIVE We aimed to show Turkish surgeons' current status of experience and perception about single-incision laparoscopic surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS The experience and perception of general surgeons, who were members of the Turkish Surgical Association (3.5%, 116/3312), about single-incision laparoscopic surgery were analyzed according to demographic characteristics and a self-report questionnaire with the following four domains: surgeons' perception regarding the performance of single-incision laparoscopic surgery in their clinical practice; their experience of laparoscopic surgery; education, experience, and attitude for single-incision laparoscopic surgery; and the reason for performing/not performing single-incision laparoscopic surgery in their practice. RESULTS There were no significant factors affecting Turkish surgeons' preference of surgical approach. Although, most surgeons performing single-incision laparoscopic surgery were educated (72.2%), the dominant factor driven them to perform this surgery seemed to be personal achievement and satisfaction (57%). Most surgeons who did not perform single-incision laparoscopic surgery were not interested to do so and considered it unnecessary (62.1%). In addition, the need for special equipment and training were dominant barriers (61%). CONCLUSION It seems that Turkish surgeons' perception to perform single-incision laparoscopic surgery was more related to their personal achievement and satisfaction.