Several techniques for initial abdominal entry in laparoscopy have been introduced in literature. Various guidelines and recommendations are available on this subject, however, compliance to these are controversial. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the rationale and the process of decision making for first entry technique in laparoscopy.

Several methods, i.e., the Veress needle, open approach using the Hasson trocar and direct trocar insertion without insufflation have been described for initial abdominal entry in laparoscopy. On the other hand, relatively new approaches, e.g., the optical or radially expanding trocars did not become common yet. Despite the advantages of laparoscopic surgery, serious complications can be encountered during the initial entry. Development of a complication, e.g., major vascular and intestinal injury, would affect the outcome of the operation and it may result in conversion to the open approach. Because of low incidence of these complications, it is impossible to show any superiority of one approach to another.

In this study, we aimed to analyze the rationale and the process of decision making of a surgeon about initial abdominal entry technique for laparoscopy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• General Surgeons who approve to participate to the study will be included.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Surgical residents will be excluded from the study

Close-ended survey questions were formed and sent to general surgeons by e-mail containing the web address of the survey.