The Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Surgeons of Asia (ELSA) is a non-profitable organization
founded by a small group of Asian endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery enthusiasts in 1990.

The society was chartered in Singapore on 12 June 1992 with the following objectives: to foster and develop endoscopic surgery in Asia, to share experience and expertise, and to give advice on standards of practice in member countries.

ELSA today is the major regional representative for endoscopic surgeons in the Asia-Pacific. It is a founding member of the International Federation of Societies of Endoscopic Surgeons (IFSES), and its governing body consists of leaders in endoscopic surgery from 37 countries in the Asia-Pacific, from Turkey in the west to New Zealand in the east.