- A telescope is inserted through a small incision in the umbilicus (belly-button) and allows direct visualization of the pelvic organs.
- Performed as an out-patient procedure and requires general anesthesia.
- Placing 1-3 additional ports through small (1/2 cm) incisions allows surgical procedures to also be performed, including laser/cautery of endometriosis, or adhesiolysis (cutting scar tissue).
- Repair of some tubal blockage can also be performed, but this is only successful if the fimbria ("fingers" on the end of the tubes) are normal.
- If the tubes are completely destroyed at the ends and are swollen (hydrosalpinges), removal of the tubes or tubal ligation is recommended prior to undergoing IVF, and can be performed at the time of laparoscopy.
