A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  R  S  T  U  V  W  Z

Pelvic laparoscopy

Definition

Pelvic laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that examines and treats pelvic organs through a small surgical viewing instrument (laparoscope) inserted into the abdomen at the navel.

Alternative Names

Celioscopy; Band-aid surgery; Pelviscopy

Description

While you are deep asleep and pain-free under general anesthesia, the doctor makes a half-inch surgical cut in the skin below the navel. Carbon dioxide gas is pumped into the abdomen to help the doctor see the organs more easily.

The laparoscope, an instrument that looks like a small telescope on a flexible tube, is inserted so the doctor can view the area. Other instruments may be inserted through other small cuts in the lower abdomen to get tissue samples or do other procedures. After the laparoscopy, the carbon dioxide gas is released, and the surgeon closes the cuts with stitches.

Risks

General anesthesia poses the risk of reactions to medications, including breathing problems. Risks for any surgery include:

  • Bleeding
  • Damage to nearby organs and tissues
  • Infection
Review Date: 2/19/2008
Reviewed By: Peter Chen, MD, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.