Gynecologic laparoscopy Health Article

Why the test is performed

Gynecologic laparoscopy is done for the same reasons as open surgery.

Laparoscopy can be used to:

• Harvest eggs for in vitro fertilization
• Remove a tubal pregnancy
• Remove the uterus (hysterectomy) or the ovaries

What abnormal results mean

Abnormal results vary based on the type of procedure.

What the risks are

There is a risk of puncturing an organ. This could cause the contents of the intestines to leak, or lead to bleeding into the abdominal cavity. This may need more involved surgery. Severe injury may result in infection or the need for a blood transfusion.

Special considerations

Women who have already had surgery to the abdomen or pelvis may not be able to have laparoscopic surgery.

Surgery can lead to scarring, which prevents laparoscopic instruments from safely passing into the area. Scarring may also prevent the abdominal wall from being pushed out of the way properly when the carbon dioxide is injected.