Making the most of your exploratory laparotomy (avoiding the “peek and shriek”) (SVS25)

This lecture will provide practical advice on when and how to perform a thorough exploratory laparotomy, with an emphasis on which aspects of technique and equipment are essential versus “nice to have”. It will include a detailed “visual tour” of the clinically relevant anatomy, tips for biopsing abdominal organs and recommendations for how to open and close a large coeliotomy incision.

At the end of the lecture the delegate should:

• Know when an exlap is indicated and what the essential considerations are before embarking on surgery.
• Be able to describe the clinically relevant anatomy when performing an thorough exlap.
• Have learnt surgical tips for performing biopsies of abdominal organs.
• Know the current recommendations for opening and closing a large coeliotomy incision.