Laparoscopy is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia to diagnose and treat endometriosis and tubal disorders, or to remove scar tissue. An instrument attached to a camera is inserted through a small incision under the navel. The laparoscope is similar in theory to a telescope. The cavity is inflated with a small amount of carbon dioxide to make visualization easier.

The operating microscope allows magnification from two to 30 fold, providing excellent visualization of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, and improves the ability to detect any scar tissue or endometriosis. Magnification is provided by laparoscope lenses, and video monitoring allows the surgical assistant to work as one with the surgeon.

Additional instruments are placed through small incisions just above the pubic hairline and these instruments allow the operator to grasp or incise. The incision is closed with several stitches.

The most common side effects are a sore throat, shoulder pain, abdominal bloating, and general stiffness. These side effects usually resolve in one to two days. Normal activities and work can be resumed shortly.

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