INTRODUCTION: The laparoscopic procedure is effective in the diagnosis and verification of level of intra-abdominal malignancies and allows exploration of commitment of the serosa, parietal and visceral peritoneum, liver, epiíplon, pelvic cavity and other organs of the abdominal cavity, and permit to deal with ascites. AIM: To describe laparoscopic technique and method to accomplish the peritoneal carcinomatosis status and indications for peritoniectomies. METHODS: After the introduction of the trocar under direct vision in the region of the umbilicus it is possible to empty ascites to the fullest, and collect material for cytological examination, avoiding contamination with blood. If there is no ascites, peritoneal lavage can be performed. Releases adhesions and adhesions can be also done prior to the operation of the cavity and also several biopsies of parietal peritoneum, diaphragm, omentum and pelvic cavity for confirmation. To determine whether the patient is a candidate for peritoniectomy and / or intra-abdominal hyperthermic chemotherapy, it can permit the realization of index of peritoneal carcinomatosis. For this to occur is essential to use the operating table with the ability to move the positions of Trendelemburg, proclivity and sides. CONCLUSION: The laparoscopic method is good to evaluate ascites, hepatic and peritoneal metastases, and may achieve efficiency, sensitivity and specificity of 100% for these attributes. It should be performed when there is clinical suspicion of intraperitoneal dissemination, but no diagnostic imaging confirmation.
Laparoscopy; Diagnosis