The value of laparoscopy in general surgical problems.

Laparoscopy offers a simple, rapid and safe way to evaluate and diagnose definitively intra-abdominal disease. An analysis of 65 consecutive patients supports this contention and demonstrates the real advantages and safety of this readily available modaility. A 90 per cent success rate, defined as accomplishing the diagnosis, was achieved in this study. There were no complications and no deaths. Local anesthesia was almost exclusively used and is strongly recommended. Laparoscopy represents an underused diagnostic modality which, when properly performed, can effect significant medical and fiscal economies in patient care.