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. 1,2 The technique is described briefly by Miller-Catchpole 3 in this issue ofThe Journaland 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. Initial reports on the laparoscopic procedure were followed by an unprecedented (at least for biliary tract surgeons) rush by surgeons to learn the new technique, advertisements and/or promotions by both the manufacturers of the required equipment and health care providers, and consumer demand for the