Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is keyhole surgery used to examine the abdomen and pelvis and, where appropriate, treat a problem during the same operation. A thin camera is passed through a small abdominal incision to inspect the pelvic organs. Additional small incisions allow surgical instruments to be used if treatment is needed.
When the Procedure May Be Recommended
Diagnostic Laparoscopy
Diagnostic laparoscopy allows the surgeon to directly visualise the pelvic organs, making it one of the most accurate ways to establish or clarify a diagnosis.
It may be recommended to investigate:
Endometriosis
Pelvic adhesions (scar tissue)
Ovarian cysts
Fibroids
Unexplained pelvic pain
Infertility
Structural abnormalities of the uterus or fallopian tubes
Operative Laparoscopy
If a problem is identified during the diagnostic stage, treatment can often be performed during the same operation. Combining diagnosis and treatment in one procedure can help avoid additional surgery and reduce overall recovery time.
Common procedures carried out during operative laparoscopy include:
Excision of endometriosis
Ovarian cyst removal (ovarian cystectomy)
Adhesiolysis – removal of scar tissue
Fibroid removal (laparoscopic myomectomy)
It may be recommended to investigate:z affecting fertilityz
What to Expect
Consultation, assessment and planning
Your care begins with a detailed consultation with Mr Richard Flint, including discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and previous investigations. If laparoscopy is recommended, the procedure, benefits, and potential risks will be explained clearly.
The operation
Laparoscopy is usually performed under general anaesthetic and may be carried out as a day-case procedure or with a short overnight stay depending on the complexity of the surgery.
Recovery
Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is generally quicker than from open surgery.
Patients may experience:
Mild abdominal discomfort
Temporary bloating
Shoulder tip pain caused by the gas used during the procedure
Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and desk-based work within 1-2 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery.
A follow-up appointment will be arranged to discuss the findings and any further treatment if required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does laparoscopy take?
A diagnostic laparoscopy alone may take around 30 minutes. If treatment is performed during the same operation, the procedure may take 60–90 minutes or longer, depending on the complexity.
Will there be visible scars?
Laparoscopy uses very small incisions, typically leaving only minimal scars that fade over time.
Is laparoscopy painful?
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort for a few days after surgery, which is usually well controlled with standard pain relief.
What happens if a problem is found?
If it is safe and appropriate, treatment is often carried out during the same procedure. If more complex surgery is required, further treatment options will be discussed with you after the operation.
You may benefit from diagnostic or operative laparoscopy if you are experiencing:
Persistent pelvic pain
Unexplained infertility
Suspected endometriosis
Ovarian cysts
Abnormal findings on imaging scans
An accurate diagnosis is often the first step toward effective treatment.
Mr Richard Flint provides expert assessment and personalised surgical care for women requiring a laparoscopy.