Diagnostic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to visually inspect the abdominal and pelvic organs for signs of disease, injury, or abnormalities. It involves making small incisions in the abdominal wall through which a thin, flexible tube with a camera (laparoscope) is inserted. This camera provides a high-definition video feed of the internal organs, allowing the surgeon to examine them in detail.

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia in a hospital or surgical center. After making small incisions, carbon dioxide gas is introduced into the abdominal cavity to create space and improve visibility. The laparoscope is then inserted through one of the incisions, while other specialized instruments may be introduced through additional incisions to manipulate organs or obtain tissue samples for biopsy.

Diagnostic laparoscopy is used to investigate various conditions, including:

Pelvic pain: It can help identify the cause of chronic or unexplained pelvic pain, such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Infertility: The procedure can assess the condition of the reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, to determine factors contributing to infertility.

Abdominal masses: It can aid in the diagnosis of tumors or masses in the abdomen or pelvis, guiding further management and treatment.

Unexplained symptoms: When other diagnostic tests are inconclusive, laparoscopy can provide direct visualization of the organs to identify the underlying cause of symptoms such as bloating, nausea, or gastrointestinal issues.

Diagnostic laparoscopy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including shorter recovery times, reduced post-operative pain, and smaller incisions, leading to less scarring and a lower risk of complications.