Diagnostic laparoscopy of the abdominal cavity

Laparoscopy is a procedure that involves the examination of abdominal organs using a special instrument called an endoscope, conducted through a small incision in the abdominal wall. In medicine, there are two types of this procedure: diagnostic laparoscopy and surgical laparoscopy.

When Laparoscopy is Used

Generally, this procedure is most often used in gynecology:

• Ovarian cyst laparoscopy. The doctor can not only diagnose this condition and collect biopsy material for histological examination, but also remove the tumor if it is small.
• Laparoscopy of the fallopian tubes. This procedure is often performed as part of infertility diagnostics to determine if there are adhesions in the tubes or changes in the structure of the fallopian tubes. If necessary, laparoscopy is also used to excise adhesions in the fallopian tubes.
• Ectopic pregnancy laparoscopy. It allows for the careful and minimally invasive removal of the fertilized egg growing in the fallopian tube. This surgical treatment method leaves a chance for future motherhood.
• Myoma laparoscopy. Benign tumors in the uterus are usually diagnosed early. Using laparoscopy for surgical treatment minimizes the risk of complications and bleeding. In this case, laparoscopy can also be a diagnostic procedure, for example, when it is necessary to determine the true nature of the tumor.

Laparoscopy in gynecology is the primary diagnostic method and is actively used in the surgical treatment of many diseases. However, its application is not limited to gynecology. Here are some other uses of laparoscopy:

• Kidney diseases. Laparoscopy can be both a diagnostic procedure and an intervention tool.
• Gallbladder issues. Patients often consult doctors with symptoms of gallbladder kinking or narrowing of the bile ducts. X-ray and ultrasound are used for diagnosis in this case, while laparoscopic removal of the gallbladder is the optimal choice.

Additionally, hernia laparoscopy can be performed, which allows for the excision of the hernia with minimal risk of postoperative complications. This diagnostic and surgical method is used not only frequently but almost universally. For example, kidney stone laparoscopy involves detecting stones, classifying them, and crushing them, all of which can be done as a comprehensive procedure.

Advantages of Laparoscopy

Previously, open access to abdominal organs was used for diagnostic and surgical treatment, but now laparoscopy is preferred. Hospitals are equipped with the necessary instruments, and specialists regularly undergo training. The advantages of laparoscopy include:

• low trauma and cosmetic effect — stitches after laparoscopy are almost invisible
• minimal blood loss during diagnostic or surgical laparoscopy
• ability to perform organ-preserving operations
• the cost of laparoscopy is affordable for many patients
• rehabilitation is quick
• hospital stay is reduced.

How Laparoscopy is Performed

Before the diagnostic or treatment procedure, the patient undergoes preparation prescribed by the doctor. It is tailored individually; for example, the patient may be advised to refrain from eating and drinking 8-12 hours before the scheduled laparoscopy, and sometimes a cleansing enema is mandatory.

Laparoscopy is performed using a special optical tube with a system of lenses that transmit images of the internal organs to a video camera. The video camera then displays a clear image on the monitor, which the doctor uses as a guide during the procedure.

Laparoscopy is done under general anesthesia, often with intravenous anesthetics.

Complications from Laparoscopy

Negative consequences in the recovery period are extremely rare. However, any surgical intervention can cause vascular injury, and laparoscopy is no exception. Such injury can lead to bleeding in the abdominal cavity or inflammation. This situation typically results in the need for an extended operation.

Laparoscopy is an optimal choice for diagnostic procedures; diagnosis is usually followed by surgery. More details on the cost, execution methods, and possible complications of laparoscopy can be found on our website Dobrobut.com.