Laparoscopy

What Is Laparoscopy Surgery?

Laparoscopy surgery is a common, non-invasive procedure used to look at the internal organs (abdomen, heart, uterus, etc).  When used solely as an examination tool, laparoscopy surgery is considered diagnostic.  When used in conjunction with another procedure, it is considered more a crutch that allows the doctor to make smaller incisions through which he or she can perform more intensive surgery. 

Laparoscopy surgery is performed under general or spinal anesthesia.  Although the exact nature of a laparoscopic examination depends on the patient's medical conditions, the general idea remains the same.  The doctor makes an incision in the belly and inflates it to gain better access to the organs.  Carbon dioxide or nitrous oxide gas is usually used for this.  The doctor then passes a thin telescope (laparoscope) through the incision.  In case more instruments need to be used, the doctor might make more incisions.  Tissue samples can be obtained, cysts drained, and abnormalities corrected during laparoscopy surgery.  After the procedure, the tools are removed, the gas released, and the wound closed up with stitches and bandaged.  Scarring after laparoscopy surgery is minimal and usually fades over time.