What is Laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy (pronounced "lap-a-ROSS-coe-pee") is a minimally invasive surgical procedure whereby a surgeon gains access to the abdominal cavity by way of small incisions in the abdominal wall. A pencil-thin instrument called a laparoscope is used, and it gives the surgeon an exceptionally clear view, on a TV monitor, of the inside of the abdominal cavity. This type of surgery is called 'minimally invasive' because of the very small incisions used.