Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions within the abdomen and pelvis. It involves the use of a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera, inserted through small incisions to visualize internal organs. This technique is preferred for its reduced recovery time, smaller scars, and lower risk of complications compared to open surgery.

Indications for Laparoscopy

1. Diagnostic:

   • Investigating chronic abdominal or pelvic pain.
   • Diagnosing conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
   • Evaluating unexplained infertility.
   • Identifying causes of abdominal masses or unexplained bleeding.

2. Therapeutic:

   • Removing gallstones (cholecystectomy).
   • Repairing hernias.
   • Treating ectopic pregnancies.
   • Performing appendectomies or colectomies.
   • Removing ovarian cysts or treating endometriosis.
   • Conducting weight loss surgeries (e.g., gastric bypass).

Procedure Steps

1. Preparation:

   • Pre-Operative Assessment:
     • Blood tests, imaging studies, and a physical examination are conducted.
   • Fasting:
     • Patients are instructed not to eat or drink for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
   • Medication Adjustments:
     • Certain medications (e.g., anticoagulants) may need to be stopped temporarily.

2. Anesthesia:

   • General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.

3. Incision and Entry:

   • A small incision is made near the navel, and a trocar (a specialized tube) is inserted.
   • Carbon dioxide gas is introduced to inflate the abdomen, providing space and visibility for the procedure.

4. Insertion of the Laparoscope:

   • The laparoscope is inserted through the trocar, transmitting high-definition images to a monitor for visualization.
   • Additional small incisions may be made to insert instruments required for the procedure.

5. Diagnostic or Therapeutic Actions:

   • For Diagnosis: Internal organs are examined for abnormalities, such as adhesions, tumors, or inflammation.
   • For Treatment: Surgical tools are used to remove, repair, or biopsy affected tissues.

6. Completion:

   • The instruments and laparoscope are removed.
   • The carbon dioxide gas is released.
   • The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape.

7. Duration:

   • The procedure typically takes 30–90 minutes, depending on its complexity.

Post-Procedure Care

1. Recovery:

   • Patients are observed in a recovery room for a few hours after surgery.
   • Some may experience mild pain, bloating, or shoulder discomfort (due to residual carbon dioxide).
   • Most patients can go home the same day, although some may require an overnight stay for monitoring.

2. Activity:

   • Light activities can usually be resumed within a few days.
   • Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for 1–2 weeks.

3. Diet:

   • A normal diet can usually be resumed within 24 hours, barring complications.

4. Follow-Up:

   • The surgeon reviews findings, discusses pathology results if biopsies were taken, and provides further treatment recommendations.