Laparoscopy

 What is a laparoscopy? 

The laparoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that is also used to treat many conditions causing infertility. It is an outpatient surgery performed at the hospital under general anesthesia. In a diagnostic laparoscopy, the physician typically makes two to three small incisions in the abdomen, one at the belly button and two others on the lower abdomen near the pubic hair line. The laparoscope resembles a small telescope and allows the physician to view the inside of the pelvic cavity. The laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions while operating tools are inserted through the others. The abdomen is filled with gas causing it to expand which makes the operating area visible and the organs more accessible.

 What occurs during a laparoscopy? 

The physician can see the ovaries, tubes, uterus, and other internal structures allowing him or her to identify any disease processes. If conditions such as endometriosis are present, they can often be treated surgically at the time of the diagnostic laparoscopy.

 Who performs laparoscopy?  

Reproductive endocrinologists are surgeons who have years of advanced training and experience in laparoscopic surgery. When conditions can be surgically treated during the diagnostic laparoscopy it eliminates the need for a second procedure.  Reproductive endocrinologists perform most surgeries using the laparoscope including delicate procedures such as tubal surgery.  This greatly reduces potential surgical complications, shortens recovery time, and reduces pain. There is usually no noticeable scarring from the laparoscopy.

 What are the complications of laparoscopy? 

Laparoscopy is very safe and the chance of complication during surgery is very low. The most common complications experienced after laparoscopy are bleeding, infection, and injury to the bowel or bladder.

 What can I expect after a laparoscopy? 

Most patients return home the same day that surgery is performed. Many patients feel drowsy after surgery for one day. Some patients experience cramping or pain from the abdominal incisions, but oral pain relievers prescribed by your physician will help to make you comfortable after surgery. Most patients return to work within two weeks after surgery.