Objective To investigate the feasibility and procedures of semi-open establishment of pneumoperitoneum(SOEPP) for laparoscopic surgery in patients with a history of abdominal surgery. Methods 117,patients,with a history of abdominal surgery received SOEPP and were retrospectively reviewed from October 1994 to January 2002. Results Out of 117 patients,pneumoperitoneum was established successfully in 115 cases by SOEPP.The successful rate of SOEPP was 98 3%(115/117). Conclusions SOEPP is a safe and feasible method in most patients with abdominal operative history.