Diagnostic Laparoscopy in Hyderabad
Laparoscopic Surgery
Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Shaivalini Kamarapu
MBBS · MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) · Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine · 20+ years of clinical experience
20+
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What is diagnostic laparoscopy?
A laparoscope is a thin telescope connected to a high-intensity light and a high-resolution monitor. A small hollow tube (port) is placed through the abdominal wall, and the laparoscope is passed through it — giving the surgeon a magnified, real-time view of the inside of the abdomen on screen. In most cases, this alone is enough to diagnose or narrow down what's causing an abdominal problem.
Why is it performed?
Tests before the procedure
What type of anaesthesia is used?
Local anaesthesia
Injected into the abdominal wall to numb the area completely, allowing safe placement of the laparoscope. Most patients feel only a brief, second-long "bee sting" sensation. Sedation is typically given alongside it.
General anaesthesia
Used for patients who aren't candidates for sedation-based local anaesthesia, or who prefer to be fully asleep — often preferred for younger patients, those who can't stay still on the table, or those with a medical condition better managed this way. The right choice varies from patient to patient, decided together with your surgeon and anaesthesiologist.
What to expect during the procedure
Anaesthesia
The chosen anaesthesia (local with sedation, or general) is administered so no pain is felt during the procedure.
Port placement
A narrow, tube-like port is placed into the abdominal cavity, typically in the upper abdomen or flank just below the ribs.
Laparoscope insertion
A tiny camera-equipped telescope is passed through the port, giving the surgeon a magnified view of the internal organs on screen.
Additional ports (if needed)
Further ports may be added to help the surgeon examine the internal organs fully and decide on the right diagnosis or treatment.
Closure
Once the procedure is complete, the small incisions are closed with absorbable sutures or surgical tape.
Possible complications
Bleeding — the most common complication of any operation
Infection at the incision site
A small risk of injury to abdominal organs, intestines, the bladder, or blood vessels
Temporary leakage of ascitic fluid from an operative site, in patients who have ascites, before it resolves
In a small number of patients, the laparoscopic approach isn't suitable and the surgeon may convert to an open procedure — a judgment call made before or during surgery based purely on what's safest for the patient. This is a sound surgical decision, not a complication.
Call your doctor if you notice
Questions to ask your surgeon
This page is a guide and does not replace a conversation with your surgeon. Before the procedure, it helps to ask:
- Why a diagnostic laparoscopy is advised in your case, and whether other tests could answer the same question
- Which type of anaesthesia will be used, and how long you will stay in hospital
- What happens if the surgeon finds a problem that can be treated during the same procedure
- The surgeon's experience with the procedure
- The expected cost, and what your insurance will cover
- When to come back for follow-up, and whom to call if you have questions after going home