Laparotomy
Key facts
- A laparotomy is an operation involving a cut in your abdomen (tummy) to look at the organs inside your abdomen.
- Before surgery, you may need to stop taking certain medicines or have medical tests.
- You will usually need to fast for at least 6 hours before the operation.
- A laparotomy is generally a safe procedure, but there is a small risk of bleeding, infection or damage to the organs inside your abdomen.
- You will usually need to stay in hospital for at least a few days after a laparotomy.
What is a laparotomy?
A laparotomy is a surgical procedure (operation) to look inside your abdomen and at your abdominal organs. During a laparotomy, your surgeon will make a large incision (cut) in your abdomen (tummy), so they can see well inside.
A laparotomy may be used in an emergency, or to assess or treat complex medical conditions. There are many reasons why your doctor may recommend this operation. If you aren't sure why you are having a laparotomy, it's important to ask your doctor.
What are the benefits of a laparotomy?
A laparotomy can help your surgeon find and treat medical problems that affect your abdomen or internal organs.
In recent years, many abdominal conditions are diagnosed or treated with laparoscopy (keyhole surgery), where your surgeon makes small incisions (cuts) in your abdomen through which a camera and instruments can be inserted.
Your surgeon may recommend a laparotomy if they expect the surgery to be complex, or during an emergency. The larger cut allows your surgeon to reach your abdomen more quickly and have a better view of what is happening inside your abdomen.
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What does a laparotomy involve?
A laparotomy involves a large incision (cut) in the abdomen. Before your surgery, you will have a general anaesthetic, so you won't be awake during the surgery.
Your surgeon will look inside your abdomen and check your organs. They may do one or more procedures at the same time, depending on the reason for your surgery. You should discuss these possibilities with your doctor.
After surgery, the incision will be closed with staples or stitches.
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How can I prepare myself for a laparotomy?
Your surgeon may refer you for tests before your surgery, such as:
- blood tests
- chest x-ray, CT or MRI scan
- electrocardiogram (ECG)
You will be asked to fast (not have anything to eat or drink) for at least 6 hours before the operation.
Check with your doctor whether you need to stop taking any regular medicines before your surgery.
Learn more about preparing for surgery.
How soon will I recover?
A laparotomy is a significant operation, and recovery will take time.
When you wake, you might have a catheter (a tube in your bladder) to help you pass urine (wee).
You will be offered medicine for pain. Your healthcare team will help you with daily wound care, deep breathing exercises, standing and walking (as soon as it is safe for you to do so).
It may be a while before you can eat and drink normally. Your doctor or dietitian may suggest a specific diet, depending on your circumstances.
You will usually need to stay in hospital for at least a few days after a laparotomy.
What complications can happen?
Laparotomy is usually a safe procedure, but there are some risks, including:
- bleeding
- infection
- damage to one or more organs in your abdomen
- blood clots
- scar tissues formation between your organs
You should urgently contact your surgeon or a member of the surgical health team if you experience any of these symptoms after surgery:
- fever
- severe pain
- nausea or vomiting
- redness or pus around the wound
Are there alternatives to a laparotomy?
In some situations, it's possible to have keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) instead of a laparotomy. A laparoscopy is less invasive and has a faster recovery time.
If your doctor recommends a laparotomy, they will explain why it is the most appropriate surgery in your circumstances.
What will happen if I decide not to have a laparotomy or it's delayed?
Your laparotomy may need to be delayed for a range of reasons, such as:
- your hospital isn't able to do your surgery due to a lack of beds
- your surgeon is unexpectedly unavailable
- you are unwell
- you don't follow fasting directions correctly
- you don't stop medicines at the right time before surgery
If your circumstances change, contact your doctor to discuss how best to proceed.
It's your choice whether or not to have any medical procedure. If you are unsure or change your mind, speak to your surgeon about the potential consequences or risks.
Resources and support
The Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) have a short video on preparing for your operation.
Call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 at any time to speak to a registered nurse (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for more information and advice.
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Last reviewed: November 2024
