Role of laparoscopy in the management of chronic unexplained lower abdominal pain

ABSTRACT

Patients with chronic lower abdominal pain in whom routine investigations fail in accurate diagnosis, continue to pose a challenge to the clinician. In many patients laparotomy is the only alternative. The aim of this study was to evaluate and establish role of laparoscopy in management of unexplained chronic lower abdominal pain. Over a period of 24 months we prospectively managed 52 patients presented with unexplained chronic lower abdominal pain by laparoscope. Laparoscopy yielded positive findings in 39[75%] of these patients. Chronic appendicitis, intrabdominal adhesions and gynecological problems were the major findings. Therapeutic procedures were performed in 40 patients [laparoscopically in 35 patients]. There were no major complications following diagnostic laparoscopy. Laparoscopy is safe and effective in management of undiagnosed chronic lower abdominal pain