Word parts
What it means
A type of minimally invasive surgery. The surgeon fills the belly with carbon dioxide gas to make room, then passes a laparoscope and small tools through a few small cuts. It is used to remove the gallbladder or appendix, for many gynecology surgeries, and to look for causes of pain. Compared with open surgery, recovery is usually faster with less pain.
For the nurse
Shoulder pain after laparoscopy is common and comes from the gas irritating the diaphragm; walking and a heating pad (if allowed) help. Check the small incisions and report a rising pain or a hard belly.
At a glance
| Spanish | laparoscopia |
|---|---|
| Also written | laparoscopies |
Related terms
postoperative
Describing the time after surgery, from the end of the operation until recovery.
-scopy
A word ending that means looking at or examining, usually with an instrument.
-scope
A word ending that means an instrument for looking or examining.
surgeon
A doctor trained to treat disease, injury or deformity by operating on the body.