Laparotomy

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Laparotomy

Posted On: 04-22-2015

What is Laparotomy?

A laparotomy is a procedure that involves making an abdominal incision so that the abdominal cavity and its many organs can be explored.

Also Known As:

Laparoscopic surgery
Abdominal surgery

Conditions Treated with Laparotomy:

A laparotomy can be performed in order to treat several conditions and diseases, including pancreatitis, stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, appendicitis, abdominal scar tissue, endometriosis, infections, cirrhosis and more. Additionally, the procedure can be performed for cancers such as pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, stomach cancer, gallbladder cancer, small or large intestine cancer, uterine cancer, fallopian tube cancer and ovarian cancer.

Non-Surgical or Other Surgical Alternatives to Laparotomy:

There are no comparable non-surgical alternatives to laparotomy. Laparoscopy may be performed as a surgical alternative.

Anesthesia with Laparotomy:

Laparotomy is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.

Potential Complications from Laparotomy:

Possible risks following laparotomy include infection, bleeding and a negative reaction to the anesthesia that is used. It is also possible for the patient to experience an incisional hernia or injury to nearby organs.

Recovery from Laparotomy:

The total recovery time following laparotomy is four to six weeks.