laparoscopy
(lap-a-ROSS-kuh-pee)
A test that uses a thin tube with a light and a special lens on the end. The tube (called a laparoscope) is passed through the wall of the abdomen. The doctor looks through the tube into the inside of the abdomen or pelvis. It may be used to evaluate a potential problem, take tissue samples, or perform surgery (for example: to remove a gall bladder or appendix).