Laparoscopy in the emergency setting is a logical extension of this technique. Open laparoscopy is particularly useful in the management of the acute abdomen. In our institution, after a sequential work-out that includes physical examination, laboratory data, plain abdominal roentgenograms and ultrasonography, diagnostic laparoscopy is advocated. We present the laparoscopic treatment of an intestinal obstruction caused by a volvulus around Meckel's diverticulum. The efficacy and safety of the diagnostic and/or therapeutic laparoscopic procedures in the emergency setting are discussed.