Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a procedure used to examine the organs of the abdominal cavity and pelvis. Laparoscopy utilizes a laparoscope, a thin flexible tube containing a video camera. The laparoscope is placed through a small incision in the abdomen and produces images that can be projected on a computer screen. A similar procedure can be used to look at the organs of the pelvis (gynecologic laparoscopy).

The advantage of laparoscopy is that it allows a direct view of the abdominal and pelvic organs and structures without the need for major surgery. Laparoscopy may also be used to perform surgical procedures including total hysterectomy, removal of tubes and ovaries, removal of lymph nodes, appendectomy, and surgical staging for malignancy. As laparoscopic techniques improve, more applications are being used.