Purpose of review: Two hundred and fifty thousand gynaecological laparoscopies are performed yearly in the UK, many of them diagnostic. Unless a patient has major endometriosis and needs advanced surgery, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists suggest a 'see and treat' policy. Thus, gynaecologists who undertake laparoscopy should be competent at performing intermediate level laparoscopic surgery, including excision of endometriosis, adhesions and benign ovarian tumours, rather than converting to laparotomy or referring patients to another unit. In order to reduce operative risk and make best use of resources, preoperative assessment should triage patients into those with unlikely pelvic pathology who do not require laparoscopy in the first instance, those with severe endometriosis, who need referral to a specialist centre and the intermediate group who is best served with a 'see and treat' policy.
Recent findings: Appraisal of alternatives to diagnostic laparoscopy in infertility assessment and recent reports of modified ultrasound scanning improve the predictive value and will help to avoid unnecessary laparoscopies. Preoperative predictors for severe endometriosis can determine who needs specialist referral. 'See and treat' laparoscopies require adequate education, and workable training methods are under investigation.
Summary: Negative laparoscopies should be avoided and 'see and treat' laparoscopy should replace diagnostic procedures. Thorough preoperative assessment helps to identify women suitable for 'see and treat' laparoscopy.