Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a short, minimally-invasive surgical procedure that allows the doctor to view the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes up close and, if necessary, address any problems areas diagnosed during the procedure such as fibroids, scar tissue (adhesions), endometriosis, and blocked fallopian tubes — all of which can cause infertility.
What to Expect
Hysteroscopy allows the physician to view and operate on the uterus through the vagina. The instrument, called a hysteroscope, is a long, narrow telescope connected to a light source that illuminates the area of interest inside the uterus.
Similar to a pap smear, a speculum is placed in the vagina to visualize the cervix. The physician will inject fluid into the uterine cavity through the hysteroscope to improve the visual field. The end of the telescope is then gently passed through the cervical canal and, under direct visualization, the instrument is advanced into the uterine cavity to view and, if necessary, take a sample from areas of concern. At the end of the hysteroscope is a camera that is controlled remotely by the physician and allows the digital images to be displayed on a screen and stored electronically for future reference.
Interpreting Laparoscopy Results
When the procedure is complete, the physician will be able to share the findings immediately and discuss options for addressing areas of concern, if there are any. If samples were taken for biopsy, those results should be reported within a week.