LAPAROSCOPY

What is laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that enables the fertility specialist to visualize the exterior of the uterus, the ovaries and the fallopian tubes.

What conditions can be diagnosed by doing laparoscopy?

We can detect the presence of fibroids, endometriosis, of scar tissue (adhesions) and the condition of the fallopian tubes – whether they are open or closed, normal in appearance or swollen (dilated).

How is laparoscopy performed?

Once the patient is fully asleep under anesthesia, a thin needle is inserted just beneath the umbilicis (bellybutton) and CO2 gas is injected into the abdomen. This gas inflates the abdomen so that the abdominal wall moves upwards and there is room to see the pelvic organs. The needle is removed and then the laparoscope is gently and carefully inserted through the incision. Once the telescope is in place, a second or third incision is made in the lower abdomen. Through these incisions, additional instruments can be inserted to allow the surgeon to move or elevate the tubes or the ovaries or portions of the intestine.

If we can visualize the tubes well, a blue dye is injected into the cervix into the uterus and this dye will then flow through the tubes – if they are open.

If the tubes are not open, then they will swell up with the blue dye and this will indicate that the tubes are not able to assist the couple in conceiving.