Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a thin device with a light and camera is inserted into the abdomen through small incisions to examine organs and potentially diagnose or treat conditions. It can be used to diagnose and treat issues like endometriosis, infertility, fibroids, cysts, and some cancers. The benefits of laparoscopy over open surgery include less pain, faster recovery times, smaller incisions, and lower risk of infection.