|
|
In many instances if you have an undiagnosed abdominal problem, a diagnostic laparoscopy will be recommended. This is a procedure that is done with the help of a laparoscope, which is a very small telescope with a high intensity light. This laparoscope is inserted into the abdomen, the image is then observed and is helpful in diagnosing the problem
Diagnostic laparoscopy may be recommended in many instances, you may have had a non-invasive x-ray technique to try and determine your problem and in the event that does not give your doctor enough information about a mass or lump that has been found, this is one of the safest ways to obtain tissue for diagnosis.
You may be having an acute or long standing pain stomach pain,, and of course there can be many reasons for that pain. It could be appendicitis, a pelvic infection, gall stones, ulcers, or bleeding in the abdomen from an unknown source. In some instances there is unexplained fluid in the abdominal cavity, called ascites. Diagnostic laparoscopy can often not only find the problem, but treat it at the same time, which is a great benefit for the patient. Laparoscopy to remove an inflamed appendix or Appendectomy or the procedure to remove the Gall Bladder is now used routinely where these surgeries are called for.
A diagnostic laparoscopy may reveal ovarian cysts, cirrhosis of the liver, or other abnormalities.
Diagnostic laparoscopy is invaluable in following up on a previously treated disease. Laparoscopy can be helpful before giving chemotherapy or radiation treatment to previously treated cancer or in determining if more chemotherapy is needed.
Before your Doctor recommends laparoscopy, he will order other tests that are non-invasive to help determine your problem. Among these will probably be a CT Scan, which uses computers to visualize the area involved. Certainly an Ultrasound, which is totally painless and simply gives images of the problem that can be used along with the laparoscopy. There are standard blood tests, urine analysis and possibly an MRI which is a machine that uses magnets and computers to scan the abdomen.
Diagnostic laparoscopy is usually performed under a local anesthesia or can be done under general anesthesia, if the patient wants to be asleep during the procedure. The most appropriate method will be determined by your surgeon.
THIS INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED TO TAKE THE PLACE OF CONSULTATION WITH A SURGEON. IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT INSURANCE COVERAGE OR YOUR DOCTORS QUALIFICATIONS, DISCUSS THIS BEFORE THE PROCEDURE TAKES PLACE.
|
|
|
