A laparoscope is an instrument that makes it possible to safely examine the inside of the abdominal cavity without the need to open it widely (make a large incision). Equipped with additional instruments, it enables the diagnosis and surgical treatment of many serious diseases and conditions, such as uterine fibroids and tumors, ovarian cysts and tumors, enlarged prostate, bladder tumors, postoperative adhesions that pose a risk of intestinal twisting, gallstones, hernias and many others. The scar after a laparoscopic procedure is minimal, as it is only one centimeter long. After such an operation, patients leave the hospital after just two days and return to their normal lives very quickly. A laparoscope is also used to detect many diseases of the liver, spleen and kidneys. After accidents, this method can be used to assess the effects of an injury and often avoid so-called wide opening of the abdominal cavity. More about laparoscopy in other issues of “Głos”.