Laparoscopy is a procedure in which an instrument similar to a telescope, having its own light source, thin and long, called laparoscope is inserted inside the abdomen through a small incision made in the umbilical mark. With the use of the laparoscopy the doctor can visualize all organs inside the abdomen and look for abnormalities (diagnostic laparoscopy). The doctor can also perform the treatment, depending on the abnormality found (operative laparoscopy).

Laparoscopy can help the doctor to diagnose many gynecological problems like endometriosis, uterine myomas, ovarian cysts, adhesions (scar tissue), and ectopic pregnancy. Many infertile patients require laparoscopy for a complete evaluation. It is usually performed on outpatient basics, under general anesthesia, and minimal disconfort. A needle is inserted through the umbilical mark, and the abdomen is filled with carbon dioxide. The gas pushes the organs away from the abdominal walls, which allows the laparoscope to be safely introduced. If any abnormality is found, it can be treated, and the diagnostic laparoscopy is turned into operative laparoscopy.

Enables the treatment of the abnormality found at the diagnostic laparoscopy. In order to perform operative laparoscopy, the doctor needs additional instruments. Thus, new incisions are necessary. In most cases, it is not needed to stay at the hospital (that is, the patient can return home in the same day of the surgery). Some of the surgeries that can be performed with the laparoscopic technique include: removing ovarian cysts, miomectomies, removing adhesions, endometriosis, opening blocked tubes, ectopic treating pregnancy treatment, and hysterectomies.

After laparoscopy, you can feel pain in the abdomen and specially in the incisions, which also can become tender. The gas used for abdomen distention can cause discomfort on your shoulders or on the abdomen. The anesthesia can cause nausea and light dizziness. The intensity of distress will depends on the duration of the procedure performed. In most cases, the patient can return to her normal activities within few days.

Serious problems caused by laparoscopy are rare (2-4 in 1000 patients), and these can include damage to the bowel, bladder, uterus, or to other organs. Problems can occur either when any of the several instruments are inserted through the abdominal wall, or during the surgical procedure.

The information herein is provided only for the general knowledge about the procedure and it cannot be regarded as a medical advice.