A laparoscope is an instrument which resembles a telescope. It is a thin metal tube which hosts channels for lenses, and a light source. During a laparoscopy, a small incision is made by the navel. The abdominal cavity is filled with a gas, CO2; allowing distension of the abdominal wall from the intra-abdominal and intra pelvic structures. This allows your physician to view the pelvic anatomy, including the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Laparoscopy is performed as a day surgery procedure, and requires that the patient receive general anesthesia.
Laparoscopy can detect damage and blockage of the fallopian tubes, scar tissue (adhesions) distorting the anatomy, endometriosis, and other abnormalities of the pelvic structures. It is both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure, and is the best test for diagnosing endometriosis or pelvic adhesions (scarring). Should abnormalities be found, small incisions (5 mm) can be made in the supra pubic area, which are not cosmetically detectable. Through these small lower abdominal incisions instruments can be placed to correct the abnormal findings. These interventions can help treat pelvic pain as well as increase the likelihood of pregnancy in women with infertility. There are a number of reasons for a woman to undergo a laparoscopy; it may be part of an evaluation for infertility, depending on the woman’s circumstance.
