Laparoscopy involves using small incisions and a camera to visualize the inside of the abdomen. It has several advantages over open surgery such as less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times. Some of the key equipment used in laparoscopy include rod lens systems and fiber optic cables for optics, trocars for abdominal access, and insufflators to inflate the abdomen with gas. Potential risks include injuries from trocars or pneumoperitoneum as well as effects of the pneumoperitoneum on respiratory and renal systems. Common procedures now performed laparoscopically include cholecystectomy, appendisectomy, hernia repair, and some cancer staging.