Laparotomy

Laparotomy  - opening

Surgical entry to the peritoneal cavity

• Emergency – Traumatic,  Non traumatic
• Elective

Indications (emergency)

• Non responsive patient / unstable patient following initial adequate resuscitation.
• Unequivocal clinical evidence of peritonitis
• Penetrating missile and penetrating abdominal (discuss with senior) trauma.
• Positive diagnostic peritoneal lavage.
• Air present under the diaphragm.