Laparoscopy

Why this test may be ordered

• To find the cause of pain or other symptoms in your belly or pelvis when imaging tests haven't provided enough information
• To examine organs and glands for abnormal growths, scar tissue, bleeding, or infections
• To collect tissue samples (biopsy) to check for disease
• To determine if a known cancer has spread in the body
• To diagnose disorders of the female reproductive system, such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or ectopic pregnancy

Preparation and collection

Follow your provider's instructions. You will need to fast (not eat or drink) for a period of time before the procedure. Ask your provider whether you should take your usual medicines or supplements. Do not stop taking any medicine without talking with your provider first. Plan to wear loose-fitting clothes and arrange for someone to take you home.

A surgeon makes a small cut near your belly button, inserts a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera), and may make one or two additional small cuts for surgical tools. Carbon dioxide gas is used to open space between organs. The procedure is done under general anesthesia in a hospital or outpatient clinic.

You may have mild abdominal pain or discomfort for a few days, and possibly neck or shoulder pain from the gas used during surgery. Serious problems are very uncommon but can include bleeding, infection, blood clots, damage to an organ or blood vessel, and problems from the anesthesia.

Understanding results

The results of a laparoscopy depend on the reason for the procedure. Your provider will explain what was found and what that information means for your health. In general, your provider will be able to make a very accurate diagnosis based on the information from the laparoscopy.

• No abnormal findings: The organs and tissues in your belly or pelvis appear normal. No signs of disease, growths, or other problems were seen. Limitation: A normal appearance does not rule out all conditions; some microscopic or functional issues may not be visible during laparoscopy. Next step: Your provider will discuss your symptoms and may recommend other tests or follow-up based on your overall health.
• Abnormal findings (e.g., growths, scar tissue, infection, bleeding): The surgeon saw abnormal growths (such as cysts or tumors), scar tissue, adhesions, signs of infection, or bleeding. Tissue samples (biopsy) may have been taken for further testing. Limitation: Visual findings alone may not confirm a specific diagnosis; biopsy results are often needed to determine if growths are cancerous or noncancerous. Next step: Your provider will explain the findings and discuss any biopsy results. Further treatment or additional tests may be recommended.

• Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure and carries risks, including bleeding, infection, and damage to organs or blood vessels.
• It is usually done only when imaging tests have not provided enough information to confirm a diagnosis.
• Some conditions may not be visible during laparoscopy, and biopsy results may be needed for a definitive diagnosis.
• The procedure requires general anesthesia, which has its own risks.
• Recovery may include mild pain, bloating, and shoulder discomfort for a few days.

What to do next

Your provider will explain the findings from your laparoscopy and what they mean for your health. If a biopsy was taken, results may take additional time. Follow your provider's instructions for recovery and any recommended follow-up appointments or tests.

• What specific findings did the surgeon see during my laparoscopy?
• Were any tissue samples (biopsies) taken, and when will I get those results?
• What do the results mean for my diagnosis and treatment plan?
• What symptoms should I watch for after the procedure that might require medical attention?
• When can I resume my normal activities, including work and exercise?

Evidence source

U.S. National Library of Medicine: Laparoscopy