Definition: Laparoscopy is a surgical diagnostic procedure used to examine the organs inside the abdomen. It is a minimally invasive procedure involving small incisions and the use of a laparoscope, a long, thin tube with a high-intensity light and a high-resolution camera at the front.
Etymology & Origin: The term ‘laparoscopy’ comes from the Greek words ‘lapara,’ meaning ‘flank’ or ‘side,’ and ‘skopein,’ meaning ‘to look or examine.’ It entered the medical lexicon in the early 20th century as techniques for minimally invasive surgeries were developed.
Examples:
- Laparoscopy is commonly used for procedures such as gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and biopsies.
- The recovery time for laparoscopic surgeries is generally shorter compared to traditional open surgeries due to the smaller incisions.
- During a laparoscopy, the surgeon can view the abdominal organs on a screen in real-time, allowing for precise and controlled surgical intervention.
