Laparoscopic general surgery: state of the art.

The rapid acceptance of laparoscopic cholecystectomy into surgical practice has been followed by the extension of laparoscopic treatment to many other surgical problems. While the role of laparoscopic surgery for some conditions is now well established, its applicability in other situations requires further evaluation. This review summarizes our current understanding of the laparoscopic management of common surgical disorders involving the gallbladder and bile ducts, groin hernias, appendix, colon, stomach, and esophagus.