Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Laparoscopy?

Sherry Holetzky
Sherry Holetzky

Laparoscopy is just a big word for a small procedure. It is a fairly noninvasive method used to examine the interior of the abdomen, pelvic cavity and other parts of the body. While laparoscopy can be used to aid in diagnoses, it is also frequently used to perform "keyhole" surgical procedures.

Rather than creating a large incision and opening up the body, tiny incisions are made and a laparoscope is inserted. This slim scope has a lighted end. It takes pictures — actually fiber optic images - and sends them to a monitor so the surgeon can see what is going on inside.

Laparoscopic surgery may be used to remove the appendix.
Laparoscopic surgery may be used to remove the appendix.

As a diagnostic tool, laparoscopy is used to investigate the causes of gynecological pain such as endometrial lesions, cysts and tumors, or to discover ectopic pregnancy. It is also performed to learn the reason for abdominal pain or tenderness, and to investigate scar tissue or other problems that may impede fertility.

As a surgical tool, laparoscopy is most commonly used to perform hernia repair, removal of endometrial and other ovarian cysts, sterilization in female patients, or to execute partial hysterectomy. Laparoscopic surgery has also become popular in the removal of the gall bladder and the appendix.

A laparoscopic procedure may be performed to remove ovarian cysts.
A laparoscopic procedure may be performed to remove ovarian cysts.

Performing laparoscopy usually only requires two to four tiny incisions less than one half inch, (about 8-10 millimeters) in length. One incision is made just below the navel, and another is usually made near the bikini line. For organ removal, additional incisions may be required on either side of the abdomen.

The first incision allows a needle to be injected into the abdomen so carbon dioxide gas can be pumped inside to buoy the walls of the abdomen up and away from organs. This allows the surgeon a better view and more room to maneuver the laparoscope and surgical tools as needed.

A laparoscope sends fiber optic images to a minor during surgery so the surgeon can see what's going on inside the patient.
A laparoscope sends fiber optic images to a minor during surgery so the surgeon can see what's going on inside the patient.

Using small incisions rather than opening the abdomen lessens recovery time as well as discomfort and makes surgical scars less noticeable. Many patients undergo laparoscopy as an outpatient procedure, returning home within 24 hours of surgery. Most begin feeling much better within the week. Depending on the nature of the procedure such as when organ removal is performed, full recovery may take a few weeks.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Laparoscopic surgery may be used to remove the appendix.
      By: dr_ox
      Laparoscopic surgery may be used to remove the appendix.
    • A laparoscopic procedure may be performed to remove ovarian cysts.
      By: joshya
      A laparoscopic procedure may be performed to remove ovarian cysts.
    • A laparoscope sends fiber optic images to a minor during surgery so the surgeon can see what's going on inside the patient.
      By: Grzegorz Kwolek
      A laparoscope sends fiber optic images to a minor during surgery so the surgeon can see what's going on inside the patient.
    • Laparoscopic surgery allows doctors to perform procedures without making large incisions, allowing quicker healing.
      By: Cosmic
      Laparoscopic surgery allows doctors to perform procedures without making large incisions, allowing quicker healing.
    • Laparoscopy may be used to investigate issues related to infertility.
      By: Igor Mojzes
      Laparoscopy may be used to investigate issues related to infertility.
    • Laparoscopic surgery may be used to remove the gall bladder.
      By: designua
      Laparoscopic surgery may be used to remove the gall bladder.