Laparoscopic surgery has an expanding role in the management of colorectal disease. As technical expertise has increased, selection of patients for laparoscopic procedures has widened without any commensurate increase in operative or postoperative complications. This article aims to summarise the current status of laparoscopic surgery in colorectal disease with particular reference to colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticular disease and disorders of the pelvic floor.