In laparoscopic surgery, a lighted instrument and small tools are inserted through small incisions to remove tissue and confirm a malignancy.

For cancers that appear to be confined to the ovary, a surgeon may be able to use the laparoscope to remove the tumor or tumors, depending on the size and location. A more extensive, open surgery may be avoided.

Depending on your overall condition and the complexity of your surgery, your lapararoscopy may be performed on an outpatient or inpatient basis. 

• The skin of the abdomen is cleansed, and sterile drapes are applied.
• A small incision is made above or below the navel.
• A needle is inserted into the incision and carbon dioxide gas is injected to elevate the abdominal wall, thereby creating a larger space to work in. This allows for easier viewing and manipulation of the organs.
• The laparoscope allows passage of a tiny video camera into the abdomen. The camera is inserted so that the organs of the pelvis and abdomen can be examined.
• Additional small incisions are made for instruments that allow the surgeon to move organs, cut tissue, suture, and staple structures as needed.
• Following the examination, the laparoscope is then removed, the incisions are closed with sutures, and bandages are applied.

• When you are awake, the surgeon will come by and talk with you about the surgery. Results from any biopsies will take a few days.
• The incisions may be painful for several hours, but you'll be given a prescription for a pain reliever.
• You may experience shoulder pain for a few days because the carbon dioxide gas used to inflate your abdomen can irritate your diaphragm, which shares some of the same nerves as the shoulder.
• You may experience an increased urge to urinate, since the gas can put pressure on the bladder.
• Depending on the procedure performed, you may be asked to avoid eating and drinking  for a period of time.