Laparoscopy Treatment Offered at Mercy Medical Center

Operative laparoscopy is a procedure that uses a thin, lighted tube known as a laparoscope. The laparoscope is used to treat abnormal conditions of the abdominal organs or the female pelvic organs. Operative laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgery and often does not require an overnight stay in the hospital.

During operative laparoscopy, a small incision is made in the abdominal area and is used as an entry point for a laparoscope. Mercy’s gynecologists are experienced in single-incision laparoscopy surgery (SILS), in which a single incision is made in the belly button only and the entire surgical scar is then concealed by the belly button.  After the incision is made, the abdominal region is filled with carbon dioxide gas, which helps move the abdominal wall and any organs out of the way, allowing for better visibility. Additional instruments are then inserted through the laparoscope in order to complete the surgical procedure.

In some cases, surgeons may use diagnostic laparoscopy prior to operative laparoscopy in order to examine and diagnose gynecologic conditions. 

Operative laparoscopy may be used to treat a wide range of gynecologic conditions including:

• Endometriosis
• Gynecologic cancers
• Uterine fibroids
• Conditions of infertility
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Congenital uterine anomalies

The gynecologists at The Institute for Gynecologic Care will use your medical history, risk factor and a thorough examination to help determine whether operative laparoscopy is a suitable treatment option for your condition.