Peritoneal endometriosis, also termed superficial endometriosis, is treated by laparoscopy. It can be managed in two ways using CO2 laser either by excision or vaporization.

Peritoneal lesions are typically excised by laser provided that it does not lead to subsequent dysfunction, which is possible in most cases.

If the lesions are located in delicate areas (ovarian ligaments, tubal bangs, tubal isthmus), excision carries the risk of deleterious hemorrhagic sequelae or fibrosis. The lesions are then vaporized with the CO2 laser.