Updated September 30, 2008.

Definition: Many surgeries can be performed using an instrument called a "laparoscope," which is a tube approximately the width of a thick pencil or pen. The laparoscope has a set of lenses on both ends, so it resembles a telescope with a camera attached to one end. Through a small incision, this instrument is introduced in to the abdomen. The camera sends live images to a television screen, so the surgeon can see inside your body.

Several additional small incisions are made that are approximately the same size through which instruments, such as small scissors and graspers, can be used to perform surgery. Usually three or four small incisions are required, and most biopsies can be removed through these incisions. If something larger, such as the uterus or enlarged ovaries, needs to be removed, this can be accomplished through the vagina.

Pronunciation: lap-R-ah-skah-pee

Also Known As: celioscopy, minimally invasive surgery

Common Misspellings: lapscopy

Examples: She required a laparoscopic surgery to remove the ovaries and the uterus. Biopsies for staging the cancer were also performed.