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Background The interview process represents a necessary but potentially resource intensive process from applicant and program perspectives. This study aimed to identify opinions of the 2020 Fellowship Council (FC) application and match process and in-cycle transition to virtual interviews due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Surveys were developed to assess the interview process and were distributed by the FC to all applicants and fellowship programs. Completion was voluntary and data (median [IQR] reported) were anonymous. Results Applicant response was 53%. Applicants submitted 27.5 (13.25–40) applications, were offered 10 (4–17) interviews, and ranked 10 (5–15) programs. Due to COVID-19, 74% of interview plans changed. Applicants completed 30% of their planned in-person interviews. For decision-making, 90% felt that in-person and 81% virtual interviews were sufficiently informative. Expected cost was $4750 ($2000–$6000) vs. actual cost $1000 ($250–$2250), ( p < 0.05). Expected missed work-days were 10 (5–16) versus actual 3 (0–6.25) ( p < 0.05). For future interviews, 44% of applicants preferred in-person after virtual pre-interviews, 29% preferred virtual only, and 18% preferred in-person only. Program response was 38%. Programs received 60 (43–85.5) applications, offered 20 (15–26) interviews, completed 16 (12.5–21) interviews, and ranked 14 (10–18) candidates. For decision-making, 92% of programs felt in-person versus 71% virtual interviews were sufficiently informative. Person-hours were greater for in-person 48 (27.5–80) versus virtual 24 (9–40) interviews ( p < 0.05). For future interviews, 38% of programs preferred in-person after virtual pre-interviews, 31% preferred in-person only, and 21% preferred virtual only. Conclusion Despite pandemic changes, 81% of applicants and 71% of programs felt they gained sufficient information from virtual sessions to create rank lists. Virtual interviews had lower costs and fewer missed work-days for applicants and decreased resource usage for programs. The majority of both groups preferred either solely virtual or virtual pre-interview followed by in-person interview formats. Virtual interviews should be incorporated into future fellowship application cycles.

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The first endoscope was created in 1805 by Philip Bozini in Germany. This endoscope was known as “Lichtleiter,” a light guiding instrument. In the 1950s, the first models of fiberoptic endoscopes were introduced. Since then, the technology associated with endoscopic surgery has grown by leaps and bounds. This article aims to explore current operating platforms and emerging technology associated with endoscopic surgery.