1. The external diagnostic examination of the abdomen by physical methods, and internally by endoscopic metods.
2. Inspection or examination of the abdominal cavity and its contents; particularly, the direct examination of the abdominal organs by endoscopy; peritoneoscopy; laparoscopy (an optical instrument using a single puncture which allows the examination of the organs of the abdominal cavity and peritoneum within limits defined by the length of the optical system).