The role of lasers in advanced operative laparoscopy.

Lasers, electrosurgery, and conventional pelviscopic techniques all provide the accomplished endoscopic surgeon with a sophisticated approach to advanced operative laparoscopy. The different lasers, as well as other energy delivery systems and conventional techniques, offer a wide choice of pathways through which a desired end result may be achieved. The sophisticated laparoscopic surgeon is able to choose the best instrument and technique to fit the purpose of the operation and skills of the surgeon. As in conventional surgery, different surgeons prefer different instruments and use different techniques. These various instruments and operative techniques should be considered synergistic rather than competitive, because they have greatly increased the scope and safety of laparoscopic surgery.