Laparoscopy is a keyhole surgical procedure in which a thin camera is inserted through a small incision near the navel, allowing direct viewing of the uterus, tubes and ovaries, usually under general anaesthesia. A diagnostic laparoscopy is used to investigate causes of infertility or pelvic pain, such as suspected endometriosis, tubal disease or pelvic adhesions, when other tests have not given a clear answer. During the same procedure, dye can be passed through the uterus and tubes (chromopertubation) to check tubal patency, and additional instruments can be used to treat findings such as endometriosis deposits, ovarian cysts or adhesions. Recovery is generally quicker than with open surgery, and the decision to proceed to laparoscopy is usually made after less invasive tests.
Also known as: diagnostic laparoscopy, keyhole surgery
Related India guides
Sources
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
- Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.