Laparoendoscopic surgery is fueled by technology, and advances in medical imaging may bring about further progress. The application of three-dimensional ultrasound to minimally invasive surgery represents technology "just over the horizon." This article describes the scientific basis of three-dimensional ultrasound and its ability "to see" anatomy not readily visualized laparoscopically. Three-dimensional ultrasound may offer a more intuitive, accurate assessment of hidden anatomic structures in real time, using a safe, non-ionizing and cost-effective technology.