Annals of surgery
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This study explores how surgeons define innovation, critically examines and evaluates these views, and uses the findings to develop practical criteria for identifying surgical innovation for ethical and regulatory purposes. ⋯ Drawing on surgeons' own views is important for the development of a practical definition of surgical innovation. We have used a critical analysis of surgeons' own views as the basis for defining the core features of innovation. A precise definition of innovation will assist surgeons to identify and manage innovation and thereby enhance patient safety.