Diagnostic laparoscopy · Marrakech
Ultrasound and MRI explain most situations, but not all. When the cause of pelvic pain or difficulty conceiving remains unexplained, diagnostic laparoscopy lets the pelvic organs be seen directly. In Marrakech, Dr Oussama Rachid, an obstetrician-gynaecologist, sets the indication at consultation and explains the procedure. This page is informational and does not replace a consultation.
After general anaesthesia, the abdomen is slightly inflated with gas and a small camera is passed through an incision near the navel. The surgeon explores the uterus, tubes, ovaries, peritoneum and neighbouring organs on a screen, and can take samples if needed.
It is considered when a diagnosis remains uncertain after other tests:
When a lesion is found, it can often be treated straight away, without a second anaesthetic: this is then called operative laparoscopy. This possibility is explained and your agreement obtained before the procedure, so that you know in advance what may be done.
A consultation lets the indication be set, the procedure explained and your written agreement obtained. An anaesthesia consultation is needed. The doctor goes through your treatments (especially blood thinners), allergies and history, orders the useful tests and gives fasting instructions. Plan to be accompanied.
The procedure is done under general anaesthesia and generally lasts from thirty minutes to an hour when purely diagnostic. You are monitored until you wake up. You go home the same day or the next depending on your condition. You receive written instructions and the number to call with any questions.
Discomfort in the abdomen, bloating and pain in the shoulder (due to the gas) are common and go away in a few days. The small scars are simply cared for. The doctor explains what he saw, gives you a report and tells you what comes next.
Consult without delay for fever, increasing pain, vomiting, heavy bleeding or difficulty passing urine.
Like any procedure under general anaesthesia, laparoscopy carries rare risks: infection, bleeding, injury to a neighbouring organ, a complication linked to anaesthesia. The doctor details them. It is offered only if the alternatives (imaging, monitoring, trial treatment) are not enough, and a second opinion is gladly accepted.
The procedures and examinations linked to this care. Each is offered after a consultation, according to your situation.
Diagnostic laparoscopy
Exploring the pelvis through a small incision when tests are not enough.
No. In many cases examination and imaging are enough to make the diagnosis. Laparoscopy is reserved for situations where it gives information or allows treatment.
From thirty minutes to an hour when purely diagnostic.
Yes, laparoscopy is done under general anaesthesia.
In most cases yes. The doctor tells you the advised delay.
Informational content: it does not replace a consultation. No outcome can be guaranteed.
