Laparoscopy is a surgery that uses a thin, lighted tube inserted through a cut (incision) in the abdomen to look at the abdominal organs or the female pelvic organs. Laparoscopy is used to find problems such as cysts, adhesions, fibroids and infections. Tissue samples can be taken for biopsy through the tube (laparoscope).
In many cases laparoscopy can be performed instead of laparotomy surgery that uses a larger incision in the belly. Laparoscopy can be less stressful and may incur less problems and lower costs than laparotomy for minor surgeries. It can often be done without needing to stay overnight in the hospital.
