Diagnostic laparoscopy
What is Diagnostic Laparoscopy?
Diagnostic laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that uses a thin, lighted tube (a laparoscope) to look at a person’s abdominal organs. The laparoscope is inserted through a small incision through the navel. This procedure is used to diagnose abdominal or pelvic conditions, or to look for signs of disease.
Preparation for Diagnostic Laparoscopy
The first step in the preparation for the procedure is to inform your doctor about any medications and supplements that you take, especially blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin. Your doctor will advise you to stop taking these medications at least two days prior to the procedure.
You might also need to stop eating and drinking for at least 8 hours before the procedure. Some doctors may ask you to take a laxative to cleanse your bowels and make the procedure easier.
Your doctor might also ask you to get a vaccination for certain diseases before the surgery, like pneumococcal pneumonia or influenza.
Procedure for Diagnostic Laparoscopy
The procedure is performed by inserting a laparoscope through a small incision through the navel. The incision is about 1-2 cm in size and is usually left open.
The laparoscope is inserted through the incision and a video camera is inserted into the abdomen. This allows the doctor to look at the abdominal organs and take images of them.
The surgeon might also take a biopsy of any abnormal growth or tissue if required.
Types of Diagnostic Laparoscopy
Diagnostic laparoscopies can be divided into two types: laparoscopy and laparoscopy-assisted laparoscopic surgery.
- When laparoscopy is performed, the doctor looks inside the abdomen with a laparoscope. This is usually done to diagnose and treat conditions such as appendicitis, endometriosis, and ectopic pregnancy.
- When laparoscopy-assisted laparoscopic surgery is done, a surgeon performs surgery through the laparoscope. This is usually done for more invasive and complex procedures, such as infertility treatments and removal of abnormal growths.
Why is Diagnostic Laparoscopy Done?
Diagnostic laparoscopy is used to diagnose and treat a variety of abdominal and pelvic conditions. It is used to diagnose conditions such as appendicitis, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancy.
It can also be used to diagnose other conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gallbladder disease, intestinal obstruction, and abdominal masses.
Diagnostic laparoscopy can also be used to take biopsies of any abnormal growths or tissues inside the abdomen.
When is Diagnostic Laparoscopy Needed?
Diagnostic laparoscopy is recommended when there is a suspicion of abdominal or pelvic conditions, or if a biopsy is needed to assess an abnormality. This procedure is also often recommended when a person is experiencing abdominal or pelvic pain that cannot be explained.
Risks Associated with Diagnostic Laparoscopy
Diagnostic laparoscopy is a safe and minimally invasive procedure. However, there are still risks associated with this procedure. These include infection, bleeding, and injury to nearby organs. In rare cases, the procedure could also cause complications due to the use of anesthesia.