BACKGROUND: Introduction of the laparoscopic surgical technique has reduced hospital stay after colonic resection from about 8-10 to 4-6 days. In most studies, however, specific attention has not been paid to changes in perioperative protocols required to maximize the advantages of the minimally invasive procedure. In the present study the laparoscopic approach was combined with a perioperative multimodal rehabilitation protocol. METHODS: After laparoscopically assisted colonic resection, patients were treated with epidural local anaesthesia for 2 days, early mobilization and enteral nutrition. Routine use of morphine and traditional tubes, drains and prolonged bladder catheterization was avoided. RESULTS: Laparoscopic resection was intended in 50 consecutive patients, of median age 81 years. The conversion rate to open resection was 22 per cent. In patients in whom the procedure was completed laparoscopically the median hospital stay was 2.5 days; defaecation occurred in 92 per cent of patients within 3 days. Patients were mobilized for more than 8 h daily from day 2. CONCLUSION: Recovery after colonic surgery was improved considerably by combining the use of a laparoscopic technique with a multimodal rehabilitation protocol of pain relief, early mobilization and oral nutrition.