Pelvic laparoscopy

Alternative names:

band-aid surgery; celioscopy; peritoneoscopy

Expectations after surgery:

Laparoscopic procedures are growing more popular with physicians, especially with the advent of more "high-tech" laparoscopes. Many of the procedures can be done on an outpatient basis, but an overnight stay may be necessary. The operating time averages 1 hour, but depends on the procedure performed.

Whether used as a diagnostic or as a therapeutic procedure, this procedure may avoid major surgery at a minimal cost. Unless major problems are uncovered during the procedure (such as appendicitis, severe bleeding, or certain cases of ectopic pregnancy), laparoscopy may be the only operation needed.

Convalescence:

The gas pumped into the abdomen may cause abdominal discomfort for 1 or 2 days after the procedure. However, you should be back to normal activities in less than 2 days. Sexual activities may resume as soon as bleeding, if any, has stopped. Call your doctor if you have severe abdominal pain, persistent fever, or vaginal bleeding.

Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial