BACKGROUND: Randomized controlled trials have shown that laparoscopic approach to surgery for perforated peptic ulcer (PPU) is associated with improved short-term outcomes; however, there is limited evidence concerning national practice. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of laparoscopic approach to PPU surgery upon mortality and morbidity in England. METHODS: Patients with a primary diagnosis of PPU, admitted as an emergency to a hospital in England, and receiving surgical intervention, between 2005 and 2012 were identified from the Hospital Episode Statistics database. Outcomes analyzed included 30-day and 90-day mortality, 30-day complications, and length of hospital stay. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify patient, hospital, and treatment-related factors associated with use of laparoscopy and mortality. RESULTS: The study included 13,022 patients who underwent emergency surgery for PPU in England over an 8-year period. From 2005 to 2012, the utilization of laparoscopic surgery for PPU increased from 0 to 13% and was more commonly used in high volume emergency centers. Laparoscopic surgery was associated with significant reductions in 30-day (7% vs. 15.7%; P < 0.001) and 90-day mortality (8.9% vs. 19.6%; P < 0.001), pneumonia (6% vs. 10.1%; P < 0.001), ischemic cardiac events (1% vs. 2.4%; P = 0.007), as well as length of hospital stay (median 5 vs. 7 days; P < 0.001). Factors associated with a reduced utilization of laparoscopic surgery included age ≥ 70 years (Odds ratio (OR) = 0.58 (95% CI) 0.49-0.68) and Charlson Comorbidity Index score ≥ 2 (OR = 0.73; 95% CI 0.57-0.94). CONCLUSION: The rate of laparoscopic repair of PPU is increasing at a national level and more common in high volume emergency centers. It is associated with reduced rates of mortality; pneumonia and shorter length of hospital stay, highlighting the need for strategies to improve dissemination of laparoscopic techniques necessary for PPU repair.