Despite numerous advances in radiology and the ability to image cancer, the most sensitive way to assess the spread of tumors in the abdominal cavity is by direct visualization. This can be done with a minimally invasive approach using a camera that is placed through the abdominal wall to explore the surfaces of the abdominal cavity and liver. In addition, an ultrasound probe can be placed through the abdominal wall and right on top of the liver, pancreas, and lymph nodes, in order to carefully examine the inside of intra-abdominal organs for evidence of tumors. This allows for directed biopsies of suspicious areas. Often, diagnoses of intra-abdominal masses or lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity are difficult to make without an operation. Laparoscopy provides a minimally invasive approach to biopsy and resection of lymph nodes and staging of different malignancies. This has been most helpful in the diagnosis of lymphoma involving abdominal lymph nodes, in the staging of pancreatic cancer prior to an open operation, and in the staging of gastric cancer. This procedure can be performed as an outpatient treatment.