Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed using a laparoscope—a thin tube equipped with a camera and a light source at its tip. The laparoscope is inserted into the abdominal cavity through small incisions in the abdominal wall, allowing the physician to visually examine internal organs and perform surgical procedures without the need for large incisions.

Laparoscopy is used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in a wide range of conditions affecting the abdominal cavity and pelvic organs. Due to its minimally invasive nature, the procedure is associated with faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Indications for laparoscopy

1. Diagnostic indications. Unexplained pelvic or abdominal pain; suspected endometriosis; infertility evaluation; presence of ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, or other pelvic masses; suspected adhesions.
2. Surgical indications. Removal of fibroids, ovarian cysts, fallopian tubes, or other neoplasms; treatment of ectopic pregnancy; tubal sterilization (tubal ligation) for permanent contraception; surgical management of endometriosis; adhesiolysis (treatment of intra-abdominal adhesions).

Advantages of laparoscopy

1. Minimal invasiveness. The procedure is performed through small incisions (0.5–1 cm), reducing the risk of infection and scar formation.
2. Rapid recovery. Patients typically recover faster than after open surgery. Most are discharged within 1–2 days and can return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.
3. Reduced blood loss. Smaller incisions and minimal tissue trauma result in less intraoperative bleeding.
4. Less postoperative pain. Pain intensity is usually lower compared with conventional open procedures.
5. Improved cosmetic outcome. Small incisions lead to minimal scarring, which is important for patients concerned about aesthetic results.

How is laparoscopy performed?

1. Preoperative preparation. General anesthesia is administered to ensure complete pain relief and patient comfort.
2. Insertion of the laparoscope. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdominal wall (typically one near the umbilicus and two or three additional incisions in the lower abdomen). The laparoscope and specialized surgical instruments are introduced through these ports.
3. The abdominal cavity is insufflated with carbon dioxide (CO₂) to improve visualization and create working space.
4. Depending on the indication, the surgeon performs the necessary interventions—removal of abnormal lesions, treatment of endometriosis, salpingectomy, adhesiolysis, and other procedures.
5. Completion of the operation. After the procedure, the instruments are removed, the gas is evacuated, and the incisions are closed with sutures.
6. The patient is transferred to the recovery unit and gradually awakens from anesthesia under medical supervision.

In most cases, laparoscopy is followed by a rapid recovery, and patients can resume normal activities within 1–2 weeks. Mild discomfort or soreness at the incision sites may occur but usually resolves within a few days.

Laparoscopy is a modern and effective method for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the abdominal cavity and pelvic organs. Due to its minimally invasive approach, patients experience faster recovery and less postoperative pain compared with traditional surgery. Today, laparoscopy is considered a gold standard in many surgical fields because of its precision, safety, and short rehabilitation period.