Since the appointment of the author as laparoscopic nurse practitioner at Milton Keynes Hospital Trust, there have been more cholecystectomy operations, but fewer patients have required open surgery or inpatient admission, with substantial cost savings. The author describes how the role developed and the opportunities it presents for nurses

In May 1995 the author was appointed as the first laparoscopic nurse practitioner (NP) in the UK. The role was to provide a seamless service for patients undergoing laparoscopic general surgery. Three factors influenced the development of this role: