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Training in laparoscopic surgery has been difficult to implement, worldwide. This survey aims to identify the current status of laparoscopic training in the Eastern Deanery, UK. We hope to identify factors which influence training and propose solutions towards improving it. Methods: All 75 trainees within the 14 National Health Service (NHS) Hospitals of the Eastern Deanery were sent out a postal questionnaire in September 2006. The response rate was 89.3%. Seventy four to eighty three percent were performing various level 1 procedures and only a small percentage were doing level 2 and level 3 procedures. All respondents felt the necessity to be independently competent in level 1 and 2 procedures by the end of their training programme but two-thirds remained sceptical about achieving their training objectives. The main factors hindering training were: inability to be the primary surgeon (87%), lack of theatre time (60%) and availability of simulator training (55%). The results reflect the lack of provision for laparoscopic training at most hospitals in the UK Eastern Deanery. This has also been reflected in another survey amongst Welsh trainees. Individual hospitals must be encouraged to provide simulator training. The training programme should allocate more time for supervised simulator sessions and live surgical training. The provision of Consultant led emergency daytime lists could provide a unique training opportunity in the management of ectopic pregnancies and ovarian cysts. Designated teaching lists and individualised training programmes are other solutions.

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