Laparoscopy

What Is It?

Surgical technique allowing viewing (through a laparoscope) and surgical instruments to be passed through the abdominal wall in a minimally invasive manner, through the belly button. Also may be called: bandaid surgery, belly button surgery, pelvic laparoscopy, peritoneoscopy, celioscopy, diagnostic laparoscopy, exploratory laparoscopy.

Laparoscopy is considered minor surgery performed under general anesthesia in an outpatient setting. The goal is to avoid making a large incision in the abdomen, thereby minimizing numerous risks of general surgery.

Indications

Infertility or one-partner conception with

known history of sexually transmitted infection, ruptured appendix, previous abdominal surgery, or endometriosis
previous tubal ligation
previous tubal (ectopic) pregnancy
chronic unexplained pelvic pain
unexplained female infertility, with established functioning male fertility
in general, any condition or situation in which a clear view of the abdominal or pelvic interior is needed for either diagnosis or treatment

How It Works

Under general (full) anesthesia, a very small incision is made in the naval (belly button) region. The laparascope is inserted through the incision, allowing for immediate viewing via a camera that transmits images to a screen within the operating room.

Results

Available immediately to the practitioner who is viewing the screen. Generally, results are disclosed to patient after full recovery from anesthesia, or in a follow-up office appointment.