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Common Gynecological Problems & Procedures

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a surgical diagnostic procedure that allows a physician to view the reproductive organs (ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes) by looking through a laparoscope, a thin telescope-like instrument. The laparoscope is inserted through a small incision just below the navel. Carbon dioxide gas is pumped into the abdomen through a special needle. This helps push the abdominal wall away from the bowel and reproductive organs, and allows for easier viewing with the laparoscope. Laparoscopy is considered a safe procedure, with few complications, and a short recovery period. It does require some kind of general or local anesthesia. Be sure to discuss with your physician which is best for you.

Diagnostic laparoscopy is often used to find the cause of abdominal pain, infertility, or ovarian cysts and tumors. When necessary, surgical instruments may be inserted through the laparoscope to treat specific conditions.

Be aware that some conditions increase the risk of complications with laparoscopy, these include:

obesity
previous lower abdominal surgery
heart or lung disease

Click on the PreOp.com button on the left to learn more about this procedure.