ESSQS qualification improves outcomes in laparoscopic rectal surgery

A multicenter study involving 933 rectal cancer patients indicates that surgeons certified by the endoscopic surgical skill qualification system (ESSQS) demonstrate superior performance in laparoscopic surgeries. After matching, patients operated on by ESSQS-qualified surgeons had significantly lower rates of open conversions (0.3% vs 2.3%) and postoperative complications (18.1% vs 26.1%). Despite differences before matching, relapse-free and overall survival rates were comparable between groups, suggesting skill certification positively impacts surgical outcomes.