Canis ISSN: 2398-2942

Laparotomy: midline

Introduction

• Access to abdominal (also potentially thoracic and pelvic) cavity.

Uses

• Treatment of various lesions (almost all abdominal organs can be exposed optimally).
• Investigation when other options are unavailable or inconclusive.

Advantages

• Access to pelvic organs: extension via pubic symphysiotomy.
• Access to thoracic organs: extension via sternotomy or diaphragmatic incision.
• Allows full assessment of entire abdomen.
• Fast and usually avascular approach.
• Can improve access to craniodorsal abdomen with paracostal extension (rarely indicated).

Requirements

Preparation

Procedure

Aftercare