TECHNOLOGY-ASSESSMENT IN LAPAROSCOPIC GENERAL-SURGERY AND GASTROINTESTINAL ENDOSCOPY - SCIENCE OR CONVENIENCE

Gastrointestinal endoscopy and laparoscopic general surgery have been significantly affected by the emergence of new techniques. These two d isciplines share many similarities, including the use of sophisticated and expensive technologies. Their proper assessment is essential beca use they are developed amidst ever-decreasing health cave budgets. Gas troenterologists and general surgeons must both participate in such ev aluations and feel confident in interpreting pertinent published data. The present review uses a clinician's point of view with relevant exa mples to discuss the methodologies adopted in technology assessment an d to highlight common pitfalls encountered in study design, patient se lection, timing and selection of the study, blinding, and outcome meas urement. Cost and statistical considerations, as well as ethical issue s, are also reviewed in the context of technology assessment.