Definition
Laparoscopy is a procedure that inserts a small telescope (laparoscope) in the
abdomen that assists the doctor when performing surgery in the abdomen and
pelvis.
 Alternative Names
- Diagnostic Laparoscopy
- Operative Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is recommended for woman who
- Have problems with infertility
- Want to be sterilized
- Have abdominal pain
- Have pelvic pain
- Removal of pelvic organs, including ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus
Benefits of the procedure
- Short hospital stay
- Small incision
- Short recovery time
- Early return to work
- Minimal postoperative pain
Laparoscopy may detect:
What is Laparoscopy?
A laparoscope is a tiny telescope that brings light into the abdomen so the
doctor can view the inside of the abdominal and pelvic cavities. Laparoscopy is
a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is often used to diagnose causes of
abdominal pain, infertility, or other problems in the reproductive organs.
Doctors can look directly at the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and nearby
organs by using a laparoscope.
To perform the procedure, a surgeon makes a small incision below the belly
button and inserts the laparoscope into the abdomen. Carbon dioxide is used to
expand the abdomen so that the pelvic organs can be seen. Additional small
incisions may be made in the lower abdomen to allow instruments to be placed to
assist the surgery. When the procedure is completed, the instruments and gas is
removed and the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. Another incision
may be made above the public region. Through this incision, the laparoscope is
inserted and an additional instrument is used to move the organs into view. After
the doctor uses the laparoscope, the cuts are then closed with stitches that
dissolve.
It is normal for the patient to experience:
- Pain in the neck and shoulders from the gas put inside the abdomen
- Pain where the instruments passed though the abdominal wall
- Abdominal cramps
- Light vaginal discharge for a day or two
5/27/2009
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