Laparoscopic Surgery:

What is it?

An investigation is made through a small incision below the navel, and tiny instruments are then used to correct the problem.

When is it appropriate?

If infertility is the result of a blocked or scarred Fallopian tube, endometriosis, cysts or fibroids, an operation may be done to clear the blockage, growth or scarring.

Success rate:

The success rate is graded according to the level of damage found in the tube. If the tube is slightly damaged, you get around 60 percent success, but a badly damaged tube gives little chance of success - around 5 percent - and the patient will usually be advised the move straight onto another appropriate fertility treatment.

Possible drawbacks:

It is a good investigative procedure, but the success rate of tube repair varies greatly. The correct diagnosis of endometriosis and other conditions may sometimes only occur when the endoscopic treatment is done, so it is a worthwhile step when appropriate.