How is a laparotomy done?

During a laparotomy, a long incision will be made in your abdomen so your surgeon can inspect your organs for damage or disease. There are a variety of places that the incision can be made, and the exact location will depend on the problem you’re trying to diagnose. A biopsy might also be taken. If the cause of your medical problem can be determined during the surgery, your surgeon might treat it as a part of the procedure. Your incision will then be closed with sutures or staples, and a temporary drain to allow excess fluids to flow out might be installed.