Several remarkable developments have occurred over the last 2 years in the management of symptomatic gallstones. A fundamentally different technique for the conduct of cholecystectomy was developed, described, and popularized by surgeons in both France and the United States. The technique is described briefly by Miller-Catchpole 鈥� and involves the use of a laparoscope and instrument insertion through trocars, thereby avoiding the traditional incision. Advantages attributed to laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared with the traditional or open cholecystectomy include diminished postoperative pain, shorter hospitalization and associated cost, more rapid recovery and return to full activity, and a superior cosmetic result.