Laparoscopy, also known as keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to examine and treat conditions in the abdomen or pelvis through small incisions. This technique utilizes a laparoscope—a thin, telescopic rod equipped with a high-resolution video camera—which is inserted through a small incision near the belly button. Additional incisions may be made to introduce specialized surgical instruments.

Compared to traditional open surgery, laparoscopy offers numerous advantages:

• Less pain
• Shorter recovery time
• Reduced blood loss
• Lower risk of infection
• Reduced need for pain medication

Performed under general anaesthesia, laparoscopy typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes, and most patients are discharged on the same day.

Laparoscopy is widely used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cysts
• Ectopic pregnancies
• Tubal ligation or tubal recanalisation
• Fibroid removal
• Infertility treatments
• Hysterectomy (uterus removal)
• Fertility enhancing procedures

Recent advancements in robotic-assisted laparoscopy have elevated the precision and outcomes of this surgical technique. Robotic systems enable surgeons to operate robotic arms using hand controls while viewing a 3D, high-resolution, magnified image of the surgical site. This advanced method offers:

• Greater precision
• Enhanced control
• Reduced impact on surrounding tissues
• Minimized bleeding and complications

Laparoscopy has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of numerous gynaecological and abdominal conditions, providing a minimally invasive approach with faster recovery times. It plays a crucial role in managing various women’s health issues, including pelvic pain, infertility, and cancers.

Key Applications in Women’s Health

1. Pelvic Pain: Laparoscopy is invaluable in diagnosing unexplained pelvic pain, allowing direct visualization of pelvic organs to identify conditions such as endometriosis, adhesions, or fibroids.
2. Fibroids: This technique is used to remove uterine fibroids, alleviating symptoms like heavy bleeding and severe cramping with minimal recovery time.
3. Fallopian Tube Issues: Laparoscopy helps assess and treat conditions affecting the fallopian tubes, such as hydrosalpinx and pyosalpinx, and can perform procedures like tubal ligation or reversal.
4. Ectopic Pregnancy: Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred method for addressing ectopic pregnancies, effectively removing ectopic tissue and controlling bleeding.
5. Endometriosis: Considered the gold standard for diagnosing and treating endometriosis, laparoscopy enables the removal of abnormal tissue, reducing pain and potentially improving fertility.
6. Adhesions: Adhesions, or bands of scar tissue, can cause pain and fertility issues. Laparoscopy allows for their removal, restoring normal anatomy and function.
7. Laparoscopically Assisted Hysterectomy: In cases requiring uterine removal, laparoscopy minimizes incisions and recovery time by assisting in detaching the uterus, which is then removed through the vagina.
8. Ovarian Cysts and Tumours: Laparoscopy facilitates the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cysts and tumours, often involving their removal or aspiration.
9. Infertility: Laparoscopy is vital for diagnosing and treating infertility by identifying and addressing factors like blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids, adhesions, or endometriosis.
10. Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Incontinence: Laparoscopy can restore the anatomical position of the uterus, bladder, or bowel, significantly improving symptoms and quality of life.