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laparoscopy
Laparoscopy looks at the outside of the ovary, uterus, the fallopian tubes and other abdominal organs. Although this surgical procedure is a diagnostic test, it can also treat blockages, endometriosis, adhesions, ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy or uterine fibroids. Hydrosalpinx, a collection of fluid in the fallopian tubes, can also be identified and treated with laparoscopy.
how it works
A laparoscope is a lighted tube that is inserted through an incision in the navel. Carbon dioxide gas is inserted into the abdomen to push away the internal organs. The laparoscope allows healthcare providers to literally see a woman’s reproductive organs and determine if any blockages or other problems exist. If a blockage is diagnosed, it can be treated at that time. If endometriosis or adhesions (scar tissue) are seen they can be corrected by laser or electrocautery during the laparoscopy as well.
side effects
There are risks and side effects associated with laparoscopy. Your healthcare provider will discuss important safety information with you about this procedure.
results
Depending on the goals of the individual procedure, laparoscopy success rates vary widely. It is also used in combination with drug therapy. The impact of the technique on various conditions has been reported as follows:1
Treatment | Pregnancy Rate |
Lysis of adhesions | 50% |
Distal tubal obstruction: | 50% |
| 80% |
| 30% |
| 15% |
1. Speroff L, et al. Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility, 7thEdition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2005.
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