The Role of Diagnostic Laparoscopy in Evaluating Chronic Abdominal Pain of Unknown Etiology

Abstract

Chronic abdominal pain is a prevalent condition that poses diagnostic challenges for healthcare providers. This study investigates the effectiveness of diagnostic laparoscopy in identifying the underlying causes of chronic abdominal pain when conventional imaging and clinical evaluations yield inconclusive results.

A retrospective analysis was conducted involving 150 patients with chronic abdominal pain who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy over two years. Key outcomes assessed included the identification of specific diagnoses, conversion rates to therapeutic procedures, and postoperative outcomes.

Results revealed that diagnostic laparoscopy successfully identified underlying conditions in 75% of cases, with the most common diagnoses including adhesions, endometriosis, and hernias. Additionally, 30% of patients underwent simultaneous therapeutic interventions during the procedure. Postoperative follow-up indicated significant reductions in pain scores and improved quality of life in the majority of patients.

These findings suggest that diagnostic laparoscopy is a valuable tool in the evaluation of chronic abdominal pain, allowing for definitive diagnoses and potential therapeutic solutions.

Keywords: diagnostic laparoscopy, chronic abdominal pain, unknown etiology, adhesions, endometriosis.