Laparoscopy indicates endoscopic surgery related to the abdomen and pelvis.

What happens during laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is usually performed under general anesthesia; however it can be performed with other types of anaesthesia that permit the patient to remain awake.

The typical pelvic laparoscopy involves a small(1/2” to ¾”) incision just below the umbilicus. The abdominal cavity is filled with carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide causes the abdomen to swell which lifts the abdominal wall away from the internal organs, so the surgeon can see  through  the laparoscope introduced through the umbilical port        

Depending on the reason for the laparoscopy, the surgeon may perform surgery through the laparoscopy by inserting various instruments into the laparoscope while using the video monitor as a guide. The video camera also allows the surgeon to take pictures of any problem areas he discovers.

Risk associated with laparoscopy

Risks for any type of surgery may be greater for people who are obese, smoke cigarettes, or have additional health problems like diabetes or hypertension.

Recovery period following laparoscopy

Laparoscopy results in relatively little pain and a quick recovery for most patients sometimes experience aches in the shoulders or chest following laparoscopy. This is because of the carbon dioxide that was used to fill the abdominal cavity. Most of the patients are fit to get discharged within a day or two they can usually resume their daily within next few days.