Laparoscopy and laparoscopic surgery
Laparoscopy
refers to the technique of visualising the inside of the abdomen using a small telescope
which is usually inserted just under the umbilicus (belly button).
These day, a miniature camera is attached to the eyepiece of the laparoscope to transmit the endoscopic
image on to a high resolution colour monitor. Further small incisions (1/2 to 1 cm)
allow various instruments (e.g. grasping forceps, scissors) to be introduced into
the abdominal cavity (see figure).
As with hysteroscopy, laparoscopy can be used for diagnosis or surgery, and as with hysteroscopy, diagnostic and operative laparoscopy are integral to modern gynaecological investigation and therapy. Operative laparoscopy has become an established alternative to laparotomy (open surgery) for the treatment of a large number of conditions; as with all "key hole" techniques, laparoscopic surgery is associated with less discomfort after surgery and a faster recovery.
Please click on the links below for further information about specific procedures:
Diagnostic laparoscopy
Laparoscopic ovarian surgery (e.g. ovarian cysts)
Laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis
Laparoscopic surgery for adhesions
Laparoscopic surgery for polycystic ovaries (ovarian drilling)
Laparoscopic surgery for fibroids
Laparoscopic tubal surgery
Laparoscopic surgery for pain
Laparoscopic hysterectomy
Possible complications