What is an exploratory laparatomy?
Sometimes patients have unexplained stomach or abdominal
pain or intestinal problems. If tests have not revealed the
cause of the pain or problem and in emergency situations
when there is no time for testing, an exploratory laparotomy
is performed. Exploratory laparatomy is an operation. The
surgeon makes a cut (incision)
in the
abdomen and visually investigates organs within the
abdominal cavity to determine the cause of the problem.
Does an exploratory laparatomy
hurt?
Not during the operation, because general anesthesia is used
to prevent discomfort to the patient. However, the incision
site in the abdomen may be sore for some time following the
operation.
Are there any potential
complications associated with an exploratory laparatomy?
Infection and bleeding are rare complications associated
with exploratory laparatomy. Other potential complications
are related to the underlying problem. Talk to the doctor or
nurse if you have any questions.
|
|
|
|
|
Exploratory Laparatomy 
