The infiltration of pelvic lymph nodes by carcinoma of the prostate or carcinoma of the bladder is an important factor in disease staging. Until now, this could be accurately assessed only by means of open surgery, an undesirable option as an investigation. Recent advances in laparoscopic instruments and camera systems have allowed the performance of laparoscopic pelvic lymph node dissection. A series of dissections in 14 patients is reported.