Laparoscopy

Surgery performed through several tiny keyhole incisions. A fiberoptic instrument is inserted through one of the incisions to view the inside of the abdomen. Surgical instruments are inserted through other incisions. Laparoscopy can be used for a variety of procedures and operations.

Parts of the Body Involved

Abdomen

Reasons for Procedure

Laparoscopy is done to examine, diagnose, and treat problems inside the abdomen. The procedure is most often performed for the following reasons:
  • Diagnose cause of acute or chronic abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Visualize and obtain a tissue specimen from a mass in the abdomen
  • Evaluate the cause of infertility
  • Evaluate source of fluid accumulating in the abdomen
  • Monitor the status of previously treated cancer
  • Assist in determining the "stage" or spread of certain cancers
Many types of surgery that have traditionally been performed with an open incision can now be performed laparoscopically, these include:
  • Hernia repair
  • Biopsy of abdominal organs
  • Appendectomy
  • Colectomy
  • Gall bladder or gallstone removal
  • Tubal ligation
  • Ectopic pregnancy surgery
  • Egg retrieval for assisted reproductive technology
  • Hysterectomy
  • Removal of fibroid tumors
  • Adrenal gland removal
  • Removal of part of the liver
  • Splenectomy

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

  • Pre-existing heart or lung condition
  • Obesity

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Depending on the reason for your laparoscopy, your doctor may do any of the following:
  • Physical exam
  • Review of medications
  • Blood tests
  • Ultrasound

Outcome

Depending on the procedure, you should be able to resume regular activities in about one week.

If the laparoscopy was performed to help diagnose a condition, your doctor will suggest treatment options. Biopsy results may take 3-5 days.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site
  • Headache, muscle aches, feeling faint or dizzy
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Following procedures with general anesthesia: cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomiting