Diagnostic laparoscopy allows direct inspection of the abdomen and peritoneum through small incisions. It is used for diagnosis, for precise staging of peritoneal disease (PCI) and for biopsies — avoiding larger, unnecessary operations.
What is it?
It is a minimally invasive operation to inspect the abdomen and peritoneum with a camera, allowing biopsies and precise assessment of a disease's extent.
It guides treatment strategy while avoiding larger, unnecessary operations — especially when imaging fails to capture small peritoneal disease.
When is it needed?
It is indicated for staging intra-abdominal/peritoneal malignancies before major surgery (PCI assessment, suitability for CRS/HIPEC or PIPAC), to investigate unclear findings and in selected cases of an acute abdomen.
It is also used for targeted biopsies and peritoneal cytology, when histological confirmation changes the treatment decision.
Preparation
A pre-operative work-up and imaging (CT/MRI) precede it. Fasting and management of any anticoagulants are arranged.
Planning (trocar positions, extent of inspection) is individualised to the purpose — diagnostic, staging or emergency.
How it's done
Under general anaesthesia, through small incisions, the abdomen is insufflated and the whole abdomen and peritoneum are inspected systematically. Biopsies are taken and, where indicated, a cytology sample.
The findings determine the next step — sometimes with immediate treatment in the same session; in an oncological setting, attention is paid to port-site management.
Inspection & biopsy
Direct inspection of the abdomen and taking biopsies for diagnosis.
PCI assessment
Precise assessment of peritoneal disease extent before CRS/HIPEC or PIPAC.
Acute abdomen
Investigation of an unclear acute abdomen, with immediate treatment where needed.
Recovery
Because of the small incisions, the stay is short and return is rapid.
The timeline depends on the findings and any combination with another procedure; advice is given accordingly.
Risks & outcomes
A safe, minimally invasive operation with a low complication rate (mainly laparoscopy/trocar-related).
Its value is that it avoids larger, unnecessary operations and precisely guides strategy.
Frequently asked questions
Why laparoscopy instead of imaging?
CT/MRI does not always capture small peritoneal disease. Laparoscopy allows direct inspection and biopsy, improving staging accuracy.
What is PCI?
It is an index that quantifies the extent of peritoneal disease and helps the decision for CRS/HIPEC or PIPAC.
Will treatment happen in the same operation?
It depends on the findings and the initial plan. In some cases diagnostic laparoscopy is combined with immediate treatment.
How short is recovery?
Because of the small incisions, the stay is short and return is rapid, depending on the findings.