Abdominal exploration

Abdominal exploration

Definition

Abdominal exploration is surgery to examine the abdomen (belly area). Surgery that opens the abdomen is called a laparotomy. Laparotomy may also be done to treat certain health problems and conditions.

Alternative Names

Laparotomy; Exploratory laparotomy

Indications

Abdominal exploration may be used to help diagnose many diseases and health problems, including:

• Inflammation of the appendix (acute appendicitis)
• Inflammation of the pancreas (acute or chronic pancreatitis)
• Pockets of infection (retroperitoneal abscess, abdominal abscess, pelvic abscess)
• Endometriosis
• Inflammation of the fallopian tubes (salpingitis)
• Scar tissue in the abdomen (adhesions)
• Cancer of the ovary, colon, pancreas, liver
• Inflammation of an intestinal pocket (diverticulitis)
• Hole in the intestine (intestinal perforation)
• Pregnancy outside of the uterus (ectopic pregnancy)

This surgery may also be used to determine the extent of certain cancers, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Convalescence

Usually, patients can resume normal eating and drinking about 2 - 3 days after the surgery. How long you stay in the hospital depends on the severity of the underlying problem. Complete recovery usually takes about 4 weeks.

Expectations after surgery

The outcome from the surgery depends upon the findings.

Risks

Risks for any anesthesia include the following:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

• Bleeding
• Infection

Digestive system

Pelvic adhesions

Abdominal exploration - series

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