[Abdominal laparoscopy, experience in 1,400 cases studied]

Laparoscopy is a simple and sure method of diagnosis for the gastroenterologist. Laparascopy does not oppose exploratory laparatomy and can often substitute it advantageously. In fact it causes less morbility and mortality, less discomfort to the patient, requires only local anesthesia, permits leaving the hospital within 4 hours, and when done by an experienced and able person provides data of great usefulness in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. A laparoscopy can confirm or refute various doubtful clinical diagnoses. It is hoped that the thecnic demonstrated and seen through the laparoscopy will lead to a greater use of this valuable diagnostic examination.