Laparoscopy (gynaecology)

Gynaecological diagnostic keyhole surgery. A type of minimally invasive surgery that is used to examine the pelvis, fallopian tubes, ovaries and womb, and carry out treatments.

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What is a gynaecology laparoscopy?

A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure. It involves using a keyhole camera (laparoscope) to examine the pelvis, womb, fallopian tubes and ovaries via the belly button. It can be used to diagnose or treat gynaecological conditions.

Need to know

What happens during your investigative surgery?

Your doctor will guide a tiny keyhole camera (laparoscope) through a small cut in your belly button. The camera will then feed back images of your pelvic area, including your fallopian tubes, womb and ovaries. Your doctor will then use these images to diagnose any conditions you may have, or guide treatment for issues such as endometriosis and ovarian cysts. A laparoscopy is carried out under general anaesthetic which means you'll be asleep. Your procedure in theatre can take 30 - 120 minutes depending on whether it's diagnostic or therapeutic.

How to prepare

Your consultant will tell you how to prepare for your laparoscopy. Because this procedure involves general anaesthetic, they'll tell you how long you should avoid eating and drinking for beforehand. Like all procedures, there may be some risks involved. Your consultant will explain these to you and answer any question you might have.

After surgery

You should be able to go home on the day of your procedure, once your anaesthetic has worn off. You won't be able to drive so please arrange for someone to take you home. You shouldn't be left with any visible scars.

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