The impact of laparoscopy on gynecology.

The "Edsel status" which laparoscopy suffered for 35 years in the United States ended in 1968-1969. In diagnosis laparoscopy may be used for infertility work-up affords a panoramic view of the pelvis and allows checking of tubal patency under direct vision by transcervical dye instillation. Laparotomy still has uses, as in the case of a pelvic mass requiring laparotomy on the basis of size and/or symptomatology. Laparoscopy has had its most profound impact in the area of tubal sterilization. Although the future is somewhat cloudy with the coming development of a tubal clip that will eliminate the potential danger of bleeding secondary to inadequate coagulation.