Barriers to Implementation

Despite multiple publications reporting the benefits of a minimally invasive approach, less than one-third of colectomies are being performed laparoscopically. Barriers include a wide array of factors ranging from lack of institutional support and equipment to a lack of experience and expertise. Overcoming the barriers to adoption of laparoscopic colectomy remains possible. Continued improvement in equipment will diminish the learning curve and create more providers. Enhanced education will facilitate technique accrual and skill retention. This chapter will focus on the identification of barriers to laparoscopic colectomy and the methods we can implement to overcome them.