laparotomy

American  

[lap-uh-rot-uh-mee] / ˌlæp əˈrɒt ə mi /

noun

Surgery.

plural

laparotomies

1. incision through the abdominal wall.

2. incision into the loin, especially for access to the abdominal cavity.

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laparotomy British  

/ ˌlæpəˈrɒtəmɪ /

noun

1. surgical incision through the abdominal wall, esp to investigate the cause of an abdominal disorder

2. surgical incision into the loin

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Etymology

Origin of laparotomy

First recorded in 1875–80; laparo- + -tomy

Example Sentences

The medical records include a notation from a second surgeon that “the loop end of a laparotomy pad” had been found during a subsequent operation.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 15, 2023

Pope Francis had a laparotomy, a surgery that involves opening up the abdomen, and doctors also inserted some prosthetic mesh to strengthen his colon.

From Washington Times • Jun. 7, 2023

Pope Francis is undergoing a laparotomy, a surgery that involves opening up the abdomen to expose internal organs, and doctors planned to insert a prosthesis while he was under general anesthesia.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 7, 2023

"In the early afternoon he will undergo a laparotomy and abdominal wall surgery... under general anaesthesia," said Mr Bruni.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2023

The words might have this meaning: "In a case of necessity you may do laparotomy and remove an ectopic gestation, provided you do not kill either the mother or the foetus."

From Essays In Pastoral Medicine by ?Malley, Austin