Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a modern, minimally invasive gynecological procedure that provides a detailed view of the pelvic organs and at the same time allows the treatment of numerous conditions – with a smaller incision, faster recovery and a better aesthetic result.

Page Overview

What is a laparoscopic procedure?

Laparoscopy is an operation that uses a thin instrument called a laparoscope, which has a light and a camera at its end to visualise the abdominal cavity, and is introduced through several small incisions on the abdomen. In this way the gynaecologist sees the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and other structures in the small pelvis magnified on a screen and can make a very precise diagnosis and at the same time treat numerous conditions.

Unlike a classic „open“ operation, gynaecological laparoscopy involves less tissue damage, less blood loss and, as a rule, less pain after the procedure. Because of this, patients most often recover faster, return to everyday activities sooner, and the scars are considerably smaller and more aesthetically acceptable.

The most common applications of laparoscopy are:
Diagnostic laparoscopy - when the goal is to examine the organs of the small pelvis in detail, and therapeutic - surgery for ovarian cysts, checking the patency of the fallopian tubes, surgery for uterine fibroids, biopsy. At Cito Polyclinic it is performed in controlled conditions, with an experienced  gynaecological and anaesthetic team of experts and a modern laparoscopic system.

Key features of a laparoscopic procedure

  • a minimally invasive procedure with less pain and a faster recovery
  • a detailed insight into the organs of the small pelvis in real time
  • the possibility of diagnosis and treatment in the same operative procedure
  • smaller and more discreet scars compared to a classic abdominal operation

What are the benefits of laparoscopy?

A minimally invasive approach

It allows the procedure through several small incisions (usually 0.5-1 cm), with less tissue damage than a classic operation, which results in a faster recovery, less pain and a better aesthetic result.

Better visualisation of structures

The high-resolution camera gives a magnified view of the organs of the small pelvis, which allows more precise diagnosis and targeted removal of pathological changes - an important prerequisite for quality treatment and the preservation of healthy tissue.

Faster recovery and an earlier return to activities

Because of the smaller incision and less tissue trauma, most patients recover faster, get up sooner after the procedure, with a shorter sick leave and a faster return to everyday activities.

Indications and expected results

Laparoscopy is recommended when it is necessary to precisely diagnose or surgically treat certain conditions in the pelvis, especially when non-invasive methods (ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, HSG…) do not provide enough information or when surgical treatment is planned.

The most common indications

  • Endometriosis (diagnosis and removal of deposits)
  • Ovarian cysts (e.g. endometriomas, functional cysts, dermoid cysts)
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Adhesions after earlier operations or inflammation
  • Infertility (assessment of fallopian tube patency, examination of the ovaries, uterus and adhesions)
  • Certain fibroids and congenital anomalies of the uterus
  • Chronic pelvic pain of unclear cause

What can you expect?

The laparoscopic procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. The duration of the procedure depends on the pathology being operated on, and procedures mostly last 1-3 hours. To gain an insight into the abdominal cavity, a laparoscope is introduced through a small incision in the navel. Depending on the type of procedure, an additional 2 or 3 incisions need to be made (5-10 mm in size) so that our surgeons can operate on the pathology found. 

The aim of laparoscopy is to make or confirm a precise diagnosis, to remove or reduce the cause of the complaints (cysts, adhesions, endometriosis deposits), to preserve the healthy tissue of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes as much as possible, to improve quality of life by reducing pain and irregular bleeding, and in some cases to increase the chances of pregnancy.

The expected results depend on the initial condition, the findings and the type of procedure. Your gynaecologist will go through the plan and realistic expectations, possible alternatives and the necessary follow-ups after the operation with you.

What does the procedure look like - step by step

1. Admission and preparation

Arrival at the agreed time, administrative processing, a conversation with the gynaecologist and anaesthetist, a review of the medical documentation (ultrasound, laboratory, earlier findings, therapies). You receive detailed information about the procedure and sign an informed consent.

2. Anaesthesia

Laparoscopy is most often performed under general anaesthesia, for your safety and comfort. The anaesthetist is present throughout the procedure and continuously monitors your vital functions.

3. Diagnosis and the operative procedure

The gynaecologist systematically examines the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and surrounding structures, and according to the plan removes pathological formations (cysts, endometriosis deposits, adhesions, an ectopic pregnancy, certain fibroids). On completion the CO₂ gas is released, the instruments are removed, and the small incisions are closed with sutures or strips.

4. Waking up and observation

The duration of the procedure depends on the pathology being operated on, and procedures mostly last 1-3 hours.

After the procedure you wake up in the recovery room, under the supervision of medical staff. When your vital parameters stabilise and you feel well, you are moved to a day hospital room, where you spend time until discharge, with clear instructions for home care.

At Cito Polyclinic, laparoscopy is performed in the operating theatre, with an anaesthetic team present and modern monitoring, and according to clearly defined safety protocols.

Preparing for laparoscopy

You will receive precise preparation instructions from our team, tailored to your general state of health and the type of planned procedure. They most often include:

  • laboratory tests (blood, coagulation, and if needed an ECG and an internal medicine examination)
  • an agreement on pausing certain medicines, especially anticoagulants or antiplatelet therapy
  • arriving fasting on the day of the procedure (without food or drink as instructed)
  • arranging someone to accompany you home, since you do not drive after general anaesthesia
  • possible bowel preparation or special instructions, if the procedure requires them

Note: You will receive all specific recommendations related to your condition and therapy in good time, so that the procedure goes as safely and as organised as possible.

Recovery after laparoscopic surgery

Recovery after laparoscopy is usually quicker and easier than after classical open surgery, but it is still an operative procedure that requires following the instructions.

The most common symptoms in the first days:

  • mild to moderate pain or discomfort in the area of the incisions and the lower abdomen
  • a feeling of tension or pain in the shoulder (a consequence of CO₂ gas)
  • mild fatigue and the need for additional rest

General recommendations:

  • standing up and gentle movement already on the first day (as advised by your doctor)
  • use of prescribed analgesics as needed
  • avoiding greater physical exertion and lifting heavy loads for 4–6 weeks
  • wound care as instructed (keeping the wounds dry and clean, monitoring healing)
  • sexual intercourse and more intense physical activity should be postponed until medical advice is given
When should you contact us sooner than planned?
  • Increased vaginal bleeding (heavier than a usual menstrual period or the need for frequent pad changes)
  • Raised body temperature (above 38 °C) and chills
  • Redness, swelling, discharge or stronger pain in the area of the surgical incisions
  • Difficulty breathing, pressure in the chest, sudden marked weakness or dizziness
  • Unpleasant odour of vaginal discharge

In such situations contact us as soon as possible, and if you are not sure whether it is needed immediately, please call — together we will decide on the next step.

Why choose Cito Polyclinic for laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy requires an experienced team, safe anaesthesia and modern equipment. At Cito Polyclinic you get all of this in one place - with an individual approach, an emphasis on preserving fertility and an organised, as comfortable as possible recovery.

An experienced gynaecology team

Laparoscopic procedures are performed by a team of gynaecologists with experience in minimally invasive surgery, treating endometriosis, infertility and other gynaecological conditions, with an individual approach to each patient.

Anaesthesiology and a day hospital in one place

Our anaesthetic team accompanies you from the first examination to recovery after the procedure, with modern monitoring and clearly defined safety protocols, within an organised day hospital.

Advanced equipment and diagnostics

The use of modern laparoscopic equipment, a high-resolution camera and minimally invasive instruments allows a precise and gentle approach, while preserving healthy tissue whenever possible.

Quick organisation and transparent communication

From the first consultation to the procedure and follow-ups - you receive clear information, written instructions, a realistic recovery plan and a contact for all questions, without long waiting for an appointment.

Price of laparoscopy

The price at Cito Polyclinic depends on the complexity of the procedure and is 2000-3000 EUR and includes the surgical procedure in controlled conditions, anaesthetic monitoring and postoperative care.

Before the procedure, a specialist examination and the necessary diagnostic work-up are carried out, which are charged separately, depending on the findings and individual indication.

You can get the exact price of the procedure and the first available appointment straight away by calling +385 21 457 800 or by sending a message via the contact form.

Doctors

Our team of expert physicians

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this service

Which gynecological diagnoses is laparoscopy recommended for?

For ovarian cysts, endometriosis, fibroids, ectopic pregnancy, adhesions and in the diagnosis of infertility.

What does preparation, anesthesia and the course of recovery look like?

It is performed under general anesthesia through small incisions with gas insufflation. Recovery is faster than after laparotomy; return to activities in 1–2 weeks.

What are the risks and benefits compared to classic surgery?

Advantages: less pain, shorter stay and faster recovery. Risks: bleeding, infection, organ injury and, rarely, conversion to open surgery.

When can I return to daily activities after the procedure?

Light activities after a few days; full recovery depends on the procedure, generally 1–2 weeks.

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