Which procedure involves visual examination of the abdominal cavity using an endoscope?

• A. Laparoscopy
• B. Hysteroscopy
• C. Hysterosalpingography
• D. Laryngoscopy

Answer: (A)

Endoscopic visualization of the abdominal cavity is laparoscopy. In this procedure a laparoscope, a camera-equipped tube, is inserted through small abdominal incisions to directly inspect the peritoneal cavity and pelvic organs, often with the ability to perform surgery as needed. Hysteroscopy looks inside the uterus through the cervix, not the abdominal cavity. Hysterosalpingography uses X-rays with contrast to image the uterus and fallopian tubes, without an endoscope. Laryngoscopy examines the larynx via a scope passed through the mouth or nose, not the abdomen.