Overview *

Diagnostic Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure which allows a doctor to see inside the abdomen by using medical scopes attached to special video cameras. A diagnostic laparoscopy may assist patients who have undiagnosed pain or other problems in their abdomen or pelvis. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and usually on an outpatient basis. A small incision is made near the navel, and gas is injected into the abdominal cavity to expand it. If needed, additional smaller incisions are made for instruments that allow the doctor to move or hold body tissues or organs. A sample of tissue may be removed for further biopsy in a lab. Soreness and pain around the incisions sites is normal and should go away in a few days. Shoulder pain is also common, as a result of the gas injected irritating the diaphragm and irritating nerves shared by the diaphragm and shoulder.

In-Depth

Introduction | What is it?
When is it Needed? | Before Procedure
The Procedure | Risks
After the Procedure | Conclusion

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Last reviewed: 4/17/2008