What Is a Laparotomy Surgery

A laparotomy is a surgical incision

Is laparotomy considered major surgery?

What to expect during the procedure. Exploratory laparotomy is major surgery. In the hospital, your heart and lungs will be checked to make sure it’s safe to use general anesthesia. An intravenous (IV) line will be inserted into your arm or hand.

How painful is a laparotomy?

Laparotomy may cause a red, painful, raised scar across the abdomen, and it may take 6–8 weeks for this scarring to heal. In some cases, the scar will fade over time, but in others, it may be permanent. Some people may develop abdominal adhesions after the surgery.