Laparoscopy Test
A laparoscopy is a type of surgery that lets a surgeon look inside your belly or pelvis through small cuts. It helps diagnose and sometimes treat conditions without a large incision.
What this test measures
A laparoscopy examines organs and glands in the belly or pelvis to look for abnormal growths, scar tissue, bleeding, infections, or to collect tissue samples for disease checking.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Frequently asked questions
What is a laparoscopy?
A laparoscopy is a type of surgery that lets a surgeon look inside your body without making a large incision. It uses a long, thin tube with a camera called a laparoscope.
Why is a laparoscopy done?
It is used to help diagnose the cause of symptoms in the belly or pelvis, especially when imaging tests haven't provided enough information. It can also treat certain conditions.
What conditions can a laparoscopy help diagnose?
It helps diagnose digestive diseases, urinary disorders, and disorders in the female reproductive system, such as problems with the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.
What are the benefits of laparoscopy over open surgery?
Benefits include shorter hospital stays, less pain, faster recovery, and smaller scars.
What happens during a laparoscopy?
The surgeon makes a small cut near your belly button, inserts the laparoscope, and may make other small cuts for surgical tools. They can examine organs, take tissue samples, or treat problems.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Laparoscopy — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.