Diagnostic Laparoscopy
What is a diagnostic laparoscopy?
A diagnostic laparoscopy is an operation to
look at the abdominal and pelvic organs using a small telescope
(laparoscope). In some circumstances, minor treatments can be
performed at the same time.
A diagnostic laparoscopy will help to find out
if you have endometriosis, pelvic infection, adhesions, damaged
fallopian tubes, an ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts or
fibroids.
What are the benefits of surgery?
A diagnostic laparoscopy may allow your doctor
to find out the cause of your symptoms.
Are there any alternatives to surgery?
A scan may be used to find the cause of your
symptoms.
What does the operation involve?
A diagnostic laparoscopy is usually performed
under a general anaesthetic.
Your surgeon will make several small cuts on
your abdomen. They will place surgical instruments, along with a
telescope, inside your abdomen and perform the operation (see
figure 1).
Figure 1 - The technique for laparoscopic surgery
What complications can happen?
1 General complications of any operation
- Pain
- Sickness
- Bleeding
- Infection in the surgical wound
- Unsightly scarring
- Blood clots
2 Specific complications of this operation
- Damage to internal organs
- Developing a hernia near one of the
cuts
- Surgical emphysema
- Failure to find out what the problem
is
- Failed procedure
- Infection of the gynaecological organs or
bladder
How soon will I recover?
You should be able to go home the same day. A
member of the healthcare team will tell you the results of the
laparoscopy and will discuss with you any treatment or follow-up
you need.
You should rest for the first one to two
days.
Summary
A diagnostic laparoscopy helps to find out the
cause of certain gynaecological problems. Some minor treatments can
be performed at the same time.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Jeremy Hawe MBChB MRCOG
Illustrations: Hannah Ravenscroft RM
This document is intended for information purposes only and should
not replace advice that your relevant health professional would
give you.
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