This unique reference in laparoscopic colorectal surgery starts by looking at the establishment of the Lapco training programme in the UK. It then goes on to provide a comprehensive technical manual of operative and patient care for laparoscopic colorectal surgery, offers insight into training and assessment methodology and finally looks to the future and where we may be going. It shares knowledge of a unique training programme which healthcare systems worldwide are trying to emulate, and provides an up-to-date manual of know-how from some of the world's most experienced laparoscopic colorectal trainers.