Laparoscopy

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Laparoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that doctors use to look inside the abdomen. It can help them to identify a range of conditions, including appendicitis and ovarian cysts.

A small cut (incision) is made in the abdominal wall and a laparoscope is passed through it into the abdomen. A laparoscope is a thin, bendy microscope with a light on the end. It can be used to look at the abdominal organs, take tissue samples (biopsy) and even carry out small operations (this is known as keyhole surgery). The images seen by the laparoscope are played on a television monitor so that doctors and nurses can see whatâ€™s happening in real time.

You may need to have a laparoscopy to investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, pelvic pain, or swelling in this area. Sometimes itâ€™s performed if a previous test, such as an X-ray or scan, has found a problem in the abdomen or pelvis.

Laparoscopy may also be used to help surgeons see what they are doing if they need to perform open surgery. This is sometimes necessary for the removal of the gall bladder or appendix.