A laparotomy is a surgical procedure involving small incisions through the abdominal wall to gain access into the abdominal cavity. It is also known as a celiotomy.

What does laparotomy mean in medical terms?

Laparotomy is a surgical procedure that involves a surgeon making one large incision in the abdomen. Doctors use laparotomy to look inside the abdominal cavity to diagnose or treat abdominal health conditions.

What is the difference between Celiotomy and laparotomy?

Laparotomy, also known as celiotomy, is performed by making a large incision in the abdomen to gain access to the peritoneal cavity. A standard laparotomy usually involves a sagittal, midline incision along the linea alba.