Making the most of your exploratory laparotomy (avoiding the “peek and shriek”)
25 Oct 2025
RVC Clinical Theatre 2
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.