laparoskop

Laparoskop, or laparoscope, is a medical instrument used to visualize the abdominal cavity during laparoscopy and to guide minimally invasive surgery. It is a slender tube with optics, a light source, and a camera, usually displayed on a monitor. Laparoscopes can be rigid or semi-flexible and may have fixed (0°) or angled (for example 30°) viewing optics; modern systems often offer high-definition or three-dimensional visualization.

In a laparoscopic procedure, the abdomen is insufflated with carbon dioxide to create space (pneumoperitoneum). The laparoscope is inserted through one small incision, and additional trocars allow long surgical instruments to be used under video guidance. The surgeon operates by manipulating these instruments while watching the monitor.

Common indications include gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), appendectomy, gynecologic procedures (such as oophorectomy or salpingectomy), hernia repair, and colectomy. Diagnostic laparoscopy may be used to evaluate unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain. Advantages over open surgery include smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery, though it requires specialized training and careful patient selection. Limitations include a steep learning curve and possible complications such as injury to surrounding organs, bleeding, infection, or pneumoperitoneum-related effects; conversion to open surgery may be necessary in some cases.

Sterilization and reuse: laparoscopes are sterilized between patients; many units are reusable, while some are disposable. The development of laparoscopy gained prominence in the late 20th century and remains a cornerstone of minimally invasive surgery.