Definition & Meaning of "laparoscopy"

What is a "laparoscopy"?

A laparoscopy is a type of surgical procedure that uses small openings in the body instead of large ones. It is used to examine and work inside the abdomen and pelvis. During the procedure, small cuts are made through which a thin tube with lights and a camera, called a laparoscope, is inserted to view internal organs on a screen. Surgeons can then perform various procedures, such as removing organs like the appendix or gallbladder. Compared to traditional open surgery, laparoscopy typically results in faster recovery times, less pain, and smaller scars. It is commonly used for diagnosing patients and a wide range of surgeries in different medical fields.