ABSTRACT
The first foray into gynaecological minimal access surgery took place in 1936, when Swiss gynaecologist Boesch performed the first laparoscopic sterilisation. By 1988 advancements in surgical technology allowed Harry Reich to perform the first laparoscopic hysterectomy, and by 2022 the majority of gynaecological surgery can be carried out laparoscopically. Minimal access surgery reduces hospital stay and enhances post-operative recovery such that patients are often able to return to near normal function within one week. However, advancements in medical management of gynaecological conditions, the European Working Time Directive and the COVID-19 pandemic are just a few examples of how surgical volume has significantly decreased in recent times. The impact that this reduction in case load has had, and will continue to have, on the training of endoscopic surgeons in gynaecology must not be underestimated. It is well documented in the literature that improving training in laparoscopy results in better patient safety, thus it is imperative that we strive for structured minimal access training in gynaecology.