We evaluated the efficacy and safety of direct left upper quadrant (LUQ) cannula insertion for laparoscopic surgery in 23 women with prior pelvic surgery, compared with direct umbilical cannula insertion in a control group of 81 patients. Generally, the laparoscope was retained at the LUQ site throughout the operative procedure. Cannula insertions at the LUQ were successful in the first attempt in 22 patients, compared with a single successful attempt in 78 of 81 umbilical insertions. Nine women had anterior abdominal wall adhesions that extended to the umbilical area. Seven had either a prior midline (1) or Pfannenstiel (6) incision; all seven had direct LUQ cannula insertions. Two patients with umbilical adhesions had no prior surgery. Of the three complications, two were related to cannula insertions and both were in the control group. There were no bowel injuries. More experience is required to prove that LUQ cannula insertion accomplishes its intended aim of avoiding bowel or omental injuries due to adhesions in women with prior abdominopelvic surgery, but initial results were favorable.