Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a commonly performed procedure to investigate and treat diseases of abdominal and pelvic organs.
Laparoscopy is direct visualization of the abdominal cavity. The laparoscope is a long thin instrument with a light at its tip, to light up the inside of the abdomen or pelvis. Fibreoptic fibres carry images from a lens, also at the tip of the instrument, to a video monitor, which the surgeon and other theatre staff can view in real time.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is put into the abdomen through a special port that is inserted at the navel or at another safe site on the abdomen. This gas helps to separate the organs inside the abdominal cavity, making it easier for the surgeon to see the abdominal organs during laparoscopy. The gas is removed at the end of the procedure.