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Day theatre procedure

Diagnostic Laparoscopy in Windhoek

Keyhole surgery to examine the pelvic and abdominal organs and diagnose a problem.

About this service

Diagnostic laparoscopy is keyhole surgery used to examine the pelvic and abdominal organs, performed in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre to help diagnose an unclear problem. Through a few small incisions, a camera is inserted to give your surgeon a direct view of the organs inside your abdomen and pelvis, which can be especially useful when scans and other tests have not given a clear answer for symptoms like chronic pelvic pain or unexplained fertility issues.

Because the incisions are small, recovery is generally quicker than with open surgery. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthesia, and if anything is found that can be treated at the same time, your surgeon may do so, which they will discuss with you beforehand.

What to expect

  • Your surgeon explains what the laparoscopy is looking to investigate before the procedure.
  • General anaesthesia is given, and a few small incisions are made for the camera and instruments.
  • Carbon dioxide gas lifts the abdominal wall so the pelvic organs can be seen clearly on the screen.
  • Photos of what was found are often reviewed with you afterwards, and any biopsies go to the laboratory.
  • Recovery is generally quicker than open surgery, though some soreness around the incisions is normal.

Who is it for?

You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:

  • Chronic or unexplained pelvic pain
  • Unexplained fertility difficulties
  • Suspected endometriosis or other pelvic conditions
  • A doctor has recommended a direct look when scans have not given clear answers

Frequently asked questions

Why is laparoscopy used to diagnose endometriosis?

Endometriosis deposits are often too small to show on ultrasound, so looking directly at the pelvic organs through a camera is the most reliable way to confirm it. Samples can be taken and small deposits treated at the same time.

Why does my shoulder hurt after keyhole surgery?

Gas is used to lift the abdominal wall so the surgeon can see, and a little can linger and irritate the diaphragm, which is felt as shoulder-tip pain. It usually settles within a day or two, and walking around helps.

What are the scars like after a diagnostic laparoscopy?

There are usually two or three small cuts, one in the navel and the others low on the abdomen, each closed with a stitch or glue. They fade to faint marks over the following months.

For referring doctors

Referring doctors can book diagnostic laparoscopy procedures through Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre support provided. Contact us to arrange a surgical date.

Day theatre information for doctors

Ready to book your diagnostic laparoscopy?

Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.