Abstract: An improved laparoscopic surgical instrument having a proximal control end and a distal surgical instrument end adapted for performing medical procedures through the abdominal wall wherein the surgical instrument is arranged to articulate in a selected plane a full 180 degrees. Actuation of the articulating mechanism is provided by a pair of cables attached to a rotatable cable control whereby rotation of the rotatable cable control draws one cable toward the control handle while simultaneously releasing the other. The distal end of each cable is attached to an opposite side of the surgical instrument which is free to rotate about a pivot in the articulation plane when pulled upon by one of the cables. The cables pass on opposite sides of the pivot allowing for 90 degree rotations each side of the central axis of the instrument.