Laparoscopy

The laparoscopy is one of the most important fertility tests and provides information on the reproductive processes including the presence of endometriosis or damaged tubes. The laparoscope is also used to treat many conditions.

The laparoscopy is an outpatient procedure performed at the hospital under general anesthesia. It allows the physician to visualize the internal organs using a small "telescope like" device. Two surgical entry points are created, one at the belly button and the other at the pubic hairline. These incisions are small and leave minimal, or no, scarring. The abdomen is expanded with gas increasing visibility of the internal organs. The laparoscope is inserted through one of the openings and operative tools are inserted through the other.

Using the laparoscope, the physician can view the outside of the internal organs including the fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus and others. Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility and can be seen adhering to the internal organs.

A reproductive endocrinologist/infertility specialist should perform the infertility diagnostic laparoscopy whenever possible. Infertility specialists undergo advanced laparoscopic microsurgical training. The laparoscopy must be done carefully to avoid scarring and adhesions. Oftentimes the reproductive surgeon can treat conditions, such as endometriosis, during the diagnostic laparoscopy. A non-specialist may not be able to treat these conditions necessitating a repeat laparoscopy thus increasing overall infertility treatment costs.

 

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