In Laparoscopy small incisions are made in the abdomen through which instruments are inserted into the pelvis. One of these instruments is a pencil-like operating telescope called a laparoscope, which allows the surgeon to visualize the inside of the abdomen. Endometriosis can often be visualized on the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel or inside lining of the abdomen. One of the instruments uses heat to destroy the endometriosis. Laparascopic sterilization can also be performed in this way, and is often referred to as bilateral tubal ligation. For more information, see the Treatments for Pelvic Pain Page and the sterilization section on our Birth Control Page.