Laparoscopic surgery, sometimes called keyhole surgery, is a type of minimal access surgery. This means using a small camera to go inside the belly button along with instruments passed through small cuts in the lower abdomen (tummy) to perform an operation. This may be a diagnostic procedure – to go in and have a look to diagnose a problem or exclude it or an operative procedure – to correct a problem. You would be given a general anaesthetic (fully asleep) for this type of operation. The types of corrective surgery done with this technique might include treatment of endometriosis or scar tissue (adhesions), or removal of cysts, ovaries or tubes. Laparoscopically-Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy can be performed in conjunction with prolapse repairs of the vagina where the patient wishes removal of the ovaries and tubes at the same time. Laparoscopic Sterilisation can be performed to clip the tubes as a permanent form of contraception (some insurance policies would not cover this). Olivia is an expert in laparoscopy and will ensure you understand the risks, benefits and alternatives to surgery.