peritoneoscope

A peritoneoscope is a medical instrument used to visually examine the peritoneal cavity, the potential space within the abdomen that houses the abdominal organs. Historically, it refers to an endoscope designed for diagnostic peritoneoscopy, a procedure in which the peritoneal cavity is accessed through a small abdominal incision to inspect the peritoneal surfaces directly.

Design and use vary, but peritoneoscopes are typically rigid or semi-rigid devices equipped with an optical viewing system, a light source, and sometimes a working channel to allow biopsy forceps or suction. The technique generally involves creating distention of the cavity, often by introducing gas (pneumoperitoneum) or fluid, followed by insertion of the instrument through a trocar or small incision. The physician then inspects the peritoneum for abnormalities such as inflammation, metastatic implants, adhesions, or other pathology and may obtain tissue samples for biopsy.

Applications historically included evaluation of unexplained ascites, staging of intra-abdominal malignancies, and assessment of peritoneal diseases such as tuberculosis or endometriosis. With the advent of modern laparoscopy, the use of dedicated peritoneoscopes has declined, as laparoscopic techniques offer broader visualization and instrumentation through multiple ports.

Risks associated with peritoneoscopy include injury to abdominal organs, bleeding, infection, and complications related to insufflation. Today, diagnostic laparoscopy has largely supplanted traditional peritoneoscopy, though the term remains encountered in historical or niche contexts.