Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy uses a telescope and tiny incisions to look inside the abdomen. This test is used to look for signs of endometriosis or scarring.

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Laparoscopy is done in an operating room with general anesthesia. Patients are intubated (a breathing tube is inserted) for the procedure. Laparoscopy is performed on a table that tilts the patient's body head-downward at a 45 degree angle. This position lets the intestines fall away from the reproductive organs, opening more space for the doctor to see the organs, but would be very uncomfortable if you were awake. Usually the scope goes in the belly button and another instrument goes in just above the pubic bone. The incision at each location is usually less than a quarter of an inch. The doctor puts gas into the abdominal cavity to distend it and make it easier to look at the organs. The doctor may also inject dye into the uterus to see if the fallopian tubes are open--if they are open, the dye will come out the other end of the tubes.

Patients usually go home the same day.