Fluorescence imaging technology was initially used for liver reserve function assessment and sentinel lymph node biopsy in breast cancer. Subsequently, its application across various fields of oncologic surgery has gained widespread recognition. Fluorescence laparoscopy combines the advantages of fluorescence imaging and minimally invasive techniques, demonstrating significant research value and promising application prospects in the auxiliary diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). In laparoscopic CRC surgery, indocyanine green-near infrared imaging technology enhances the visualization of tumor lesions, facilitates lymph node tracing, and assesses anastomotic blood supply. In recent years, fluorescence laparoscopy has developed rapidly but remains in the exploratory stage. Minimally invasive surgical experts at home and abroad have summarized existing clinical experiences and developed a series of expert consensus guidelines for laparoscopic colorectal surgery. However, there is still no fully standardized protocol regarding indocyanine green dosage, concentration, administration method and timing, injection site, and learning curve. Therefore, further multicenter, large-scale clinical trials are needed to establish consistent guidelines, promoting the standardized and widespread application of this technology in disease diagnosis and treatment. Here, the authors introduce the development background, application progress, technical debates, and future prospects of fluorescence laparoscopy in colorectal surgery.