Laparoscopy in the pediatric and adolescent population.

The use of laparoscopy by gynecologists in treating pediatric and adolescent patients is a relatively new phenomenon. This article discusses the specialized instrumentation necessary for operating on these patients and preoperative considerations and generalized techniques unique to this population. Although laparoscopy has a myriad of uses, the main focus is on the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic pain, adnexal masses, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Incidental appendectomy in these patients is also discussed.