In laparoscopy physicians see abdominal organs through a small telescope. This helps diagnose problems in the region and permits minor surgery. It requires only a small incision to insert the laparoscope. This tool is a thin fiber-optic device that transmits light and a video image. A common use is to examine female reproductive organs.

Reasons for a laparoscopy include:
* pain in the pelvic area,
* to look for causes of infertility,
* endometriosis,
* abnormalities of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries,
* ectopic pregnancy, which is an embryo lodged in a fallopian tube,
* pelvic inflammatory disease, and
* to diagnose cancer.

The procedure usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes. The person receives either local or general anesthesia. The physician makes a small puncture at or near the navel. He or she inflates the cavity with a benign gas. This increases visibility and working space. The physician then inserts the laparoscope through the hole. If needed, he makes a second puncture for other tools. To examine the uterus and fallopian tubes, he may access them through the vagina at the same time. For example, he may check for a punctured fallopian tube by injecting a dye in the uterus. A leak would appear through the laparoscope.

Laparoscopy can include treatments as well. The physician can take a biopsy, cut abnormal tissues, or remove patches of endometriosis. A common elective procedure is tubal ligation. This makes women sterile by cutting and sealing the fallopian tubes.

When finished, the physician draws the gas back out. The puncture site requires only one or two stitches. Most people are able to go home the same day. They must avoid strenuous activity for 2 to 7 days. It is normal for the patient to have some pain at the puncture site and in the shoulder. The pain should resolve within a day or two. A mild pain reliever, such as Tylenol, is helpful.

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