Which instrument is commonly used to visualize the abdominal cavity?

The laparoscope is specifically designed for visualizing the abdominal cavity and is a key instrument used in minimally invasive surgical procedures. It is a long, thin tube equipped with a camera and light source, allowing surgeons to view the internal structures of the abdomen on a monitor without the need for a large incision. This instrument is essential in laparoscopic surgery, which has become a standard approach for various abdominal surgeries due to its benefits, such as reduced pain, shorter recovery times, and minimal scarring.

In contrast, an endoscope is primarily used for examining the interior of hollow organs, such as the gastrointestinal tract, rather than the abdominal cavity itself. A scalpel is a cutting tool used for incising tissues, and while forceps are used for grasping or holding tissues during a procedure, neither of these instruments provides visualization of the abdominal cavity. Thus, the laparoscope is the most appropriate instrument for this purpose, distinguishing it from the others listed.