What you need to know about Laparotomy Procedure
Contents
- 1 What you need to know about Laparotomy Procedure
- 2 What does the Procedure Involve?
- 3 How Long Should You Stay in the Area?
- 4 What’s the Recovery Time Like?
- 5 What Aftercare Should You Consider?
- 6 What is the Success Rate for Laparotomy Procedure?
- 7 Are there Alternatives to a Laparotomy Procedure?
- 8 What Should You Expect Before and After the Procedure?
A laparotomy, also known as a celiotomy, is a surgical procedure that involves a large incision into the abdominal wall. It is performed to gain access into the abdominal cavity so a doctor can examine the abdominal organs such as the Stomach, Gallbladder, and Liver and diagnose any problem in that area.
What does the Procedure Involve?
A laparotomy is done under general anesthesia. Your surgeon makes a single incision in the abdomen to get a clear view of the underlying organs. Then, the organs are examined. The problem may be fixed right away or later in a second operation. Once the procedure is finished, the incisions are closed with stitches.
How Long Should You Stay in the Area?
After a laparotomy, plan to stay in the hospital for about three days, as you will need intravenous fluids and also Plan to stay in the local area for at least 10 to 14 days for initial recovery, hospital check-ups, and for the removal of stitches.
What’s the Recovery Time Like?
You will need to rest for around two weeks before returning back to work, but make sure to avoid any strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling. The complete recovery period for a laparotomy may take about four weeks.
What Aftercare Should You Consider?
Your doctor will give you dietary suggestions since you may need a modified diet; make sure to follow all of the suggestions. Before you are discharged, you will be shown exercises to help the healing process. Do not forget to continue these exercises at home. A follow-up check-up may be done with your local doctor.
What is the Success Rate for Laparotomy Procedure?
Laparotomy is known to have a rather high success rate and the global mortality rate at 24 hours after the surgery is about 1.6%. There are possible side effects and risks you need to be aware of, including infection, hemorrhage (bleeding), the formation of internal scar tissue, bowel blockages, abdominal pain, and damage to internal organs.
Are there Alternatives to a Laparotomy Procedure?
The alternative to laparotomy is laparoscopy (keyhole surgery). It provides a safer procedure with a shorter recovery period. However, laparoscopy cannot be performed for certain cases.
What Should You Expect Before and After the Procedure?
Before a laparotomy, you may experience symptoms around your abdomen and your doctor may not have a clear diagnosis of what is causing your pain. After the procedure, your doctor can diagnose your condition and if the problem is addressed on the spot, you may no longer feel the symptoms.
For an in-depth analysis of a Laparotomy Procedure, watch this short video.
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