What is Diagnostic Laparoscopy?

Diagnostic laparoscopy deals with using laparoscope to see inside the abdominal cavity and discover what the abdominal problem is

A laparoscope is an instrument connected to a high intensity light and a high-resolution television camera. The surgeon uses it to see inside the abdominal cavity. The camera attached to the laparoscope sends images of the abdomen and they can be viewed on a monitor.

Why does a patient need Diagnostic Laparoscopy?

The doctor will recommend a diagnostic laparoscopy when the patient complains of the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain: When the patient complains of acute or chronic abdominal pain the doctor runs a diagnostic laparoscopy to identify the cause. The causes could be appendicitis, pelvic infections, adhesions, abdominal bleeding, endometriosis, or cancer.
• Abdominal mass: When an X-ray or other imaging test indicates a tumor or mass, a diagnostic laparoscopy is run. It will help the doctor look at the mass and obtain a tissue for further diagnosis.
• Ascites: Laparoscopy can see the presence of fluid in the abdominal cavity.
• Liver disease: When a mass is discovered in or on the liver, a diagnostic laparoscopy is recommended. The procedure is the safest method to obtain a tissue from the affected part for further analysis.

What are the different types of Diagnostic Laproscopy?

Diagnostic laparoscopy is performed under anaesthesia. The doctor makes several incisions around the suspicious area. A cannula is placed into the abdominal cavity in the upper abdomen. The laparoscope connected to the camera is inserted into the abdominal cavity through the cannula. The surgeon receives magnified images of the patient’s internal organs through the camera which he views on the monitor. Special tools are inserted through the other incisions and the diagnosis is performed. The doctor will close the incisions at the end.