Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used by surgeons and infertility specialists to evaluate and treat disorders in the pelvis that can cause or contribute to infertility. Specific conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, and pelvic adhesions (scarring) and ovarian cysts can be identified and immediately treated using this procedure. Laparoscopy is also used to evaluate and treat abnormal conditions of the fallopian tubes such as hydrosalpinx, tubal blockages and ectopic pregnancies.

Laparoscopy is done under general anesthesia in the operating room or surgery center. Carbon dioxide gas is safely infused into the abdominal cavity so that it inflates and the fiber-optic endoscope (laparoscope) is placed through a narrow tube directly into the pelvis, and the surgeon views the image on a surgical monitor. During the procedure, carbon dioxide continues to flow into the abdomen to allow adequate visualization of the reproductive organs and safe maneuvering. Usually one or more small incisions are made for the insertion of very small laparoscopic surgical instruments that perform cutting, cauterizing, suturing, and manipulating functions. Once the procedure is completed, the instruments are removed, each incision is closed with small self-absorbing sutures and band-aids are placed over the incisions. Although the carbon dioxide gas is released when the instruments are removed, occasionally a small amount of gas remains and is absorbed by the body. This process occurs normally but can cause pain in the shoulders or upper back.

The patient is normally discharged home within a few hours after completion of the laparoscopy and is able to return to normal activities as soon as it is comfortable. The total recovery time and need for pain medications may vary depending on the extent of the procedure.