ABSTRACT
Laparoscopy is often performed in the investigation of gynaecological symptoms and infertility. Some operative procedures are carried out through the laparoscope such as sterilization, removal of ectopic pregnancy, and hysterectomy. A pneumoperitoneum is induced by insufflation of CO2 through a Verres needle inserted through a small subumbilical incision. The laparoscopic trocar is then inserted through the same incision and directed towards the pelvis. The obturator is removed and the laparoscope inserted. Other instruments may be inserted into the peritoneal cavity through small lower abdominal incisions under laparoscopic guidance. If sterilization is being performed, the Fallopian tubes are identified and clips or rings applied or the tubes are diathermied. At the end of the procedure, the laparoscope is removed and remaining intra-abdominal gas released. Abdominal incisions are often simply covered, although the subumbilical incision may be stitched.
