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Logo: University of Missouri Women's Health Center-Reproductive Medicine & Fertility
Picture of a baby
Text: Laparoscopy...
For laparoscopy, a telescope is inserted through a small incision in the umbilicus (belly-button) and allows direct visualization of the pelvic organs. Laparoscopy is performed at our Center as an out-patient procedure and requires general anesthesia.
Diagram showing placement of the laparascope and laparoscopic instruments showing that an image of the female tract is visible on a TV
  • 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.
  • For more information, see the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) booklet Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy.
laparocopic image
Photo at left shows a laparoscopic image showing endometriosis (dark area below the tip of the metal probe)
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