REASONS FOR PROCEDURE
- Diagnostic examination of the abdominal organs.
- Collection of tissue samples for diagnosis.
- Closure of hernias in the abdominal wall.
- Repair of removal of abnormal tissue.
- Removal of diseased organs.
- Correction of unsightly or disfiguring abnormalities.
RISK INCREASES WITH
- Stress; obesity; smoking.
- Excess alcohol consumption.
- Poor nutrition.
- Recent acute infection.
- Chronic illness.
- History of prior abdominal surgery, particularly if it occurred at the side of the current surgery.
DECRYPTION OF PROCEDURE
- Spinal or general anesthesia is administered by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.
- An incision is made in the abdomen. The abdominal muscles are separated, and the peritoneum (inner lining of the abdomen( is opened.
- Blood vessels cut during the surgery are clamped and tied.
- Wound edges are retracted with a special instrument.
- Fluid in the abdominal cavity is often removed for laboratory examination.
- The abdominal organs are examined. Other surgeries may be performed at this time.
- Samples of suspicious tissue are gathered or diseased areas are treated.
- The peritoneum is closed, and the muscles are reconstructed with heavy sutures.
- The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 3 to 7 days after surgery.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 4 weeks for recovery from surgery.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Excessive bleeding.
- Surgical wound infection.
- Incisional hernia.
- Abscess formation.
- Complications related to the anesthetic.
- On rare occasions, injury to bowel, pelvic organs and blood vessels.
POSTPROCEDURE CARE
GENERAL MEASURES
- A hard ridge should form along the incision. As it heals, the ridge will recede gradually.
- Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relive incisional pain.
- Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap.
- Move and elevate legs often while resting in be to decrease the chance of deep-vein blood clots.
ACTIVITY
- To help recovery and aid your well-being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery.
- Sexual relations may be resumed when follow-up medical examination reveals complete healing.
- Resume driving about 3 weeks after returning home.