History of laparoscopic surgery.

Since the beginning of the 20th century physicians have promoted laparoscopy as a valuable adjunct to the diagnosis of diseases of the abdominal cavity. Laparoscopy, however, failed to become popular among abdominal surgeons until the advent of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This single new operative approach to the treatment of gallbladder stones gave rise to such enthusiasm among general surgeons that other innovative laparoscopic procedures are now being promoted in ever-increasing numbers. The general surgeon has again become the leader in the introduction of a new surgical approach. This new technique must be developed with great care, and there must be rigorous criteria for its use, critical analysis of the technique and honest reporting of results.