BACKGROUND Early laparoscopic rectosigmoid resection for acute complicated diverticulitis may avoid secondary hospital stay and stoma-related complications. Benefits of elective surgical therapies could advance the early laparoscopic approach for acute sigmoid diverticulitis. METHODS From January 2006 to April 2007, a total of 26 patients underwent laparoscopic rectosigmoid resection for acute complicated diverticulitis. Laparoscopy was performed after initial antibiotic treatment and within 10 days after admission to the hospital. Characteristics and outcome were recorded prospectively. RESULTS Mean age for 13 females was 63.3 years (range, 45-78 years) and for 13 males was 56.2 years (range, 37-76 years). A body mass index of >or=25.0 kg/m(2) was registered in 20/26 patients. Mean operative time was 122.1 min (range, 60-192 min) and mean length of the sigmoid specimen was 179 mm (range, 120-240 mm). Mean time of recovery after surgery was 7.9 days (range, 6-12 days). Operative-related complications were two wound seromas. No anastomotic leak was observed. One month postoperatively, a condition-specific quality of life questionnaire assessed significant increase of the general score index, emotional status, and medical treatment. CONCLUSIONS This prospective study demonstrates the feasibility of an early laparoscopic rectosigmoid resection for acute complicated diverticulitis with an excellent outcome and a low morbidity rate.