An abdominal exploratory laparotomy is a surgical procedure in which the abdominal cavity is opened and the abdominal organs are examined. This procedure is often done because there is evidence, or a strong indication of, a foreign body that had been ingested. This can lead to a variety of subsequent procedures such as:
- Gastrotomy – a surgical procedure when the stomach is opened
- Enterotomy – a surgical procedure when the intestines are opened
- Intestinal Resection and Anastomosis – a surgical procedure when a section of the intestine needs to be remove
- Splenectomy – a surgical procedure when the spleen is removed
- Biopsy – a surgical procedure in which a section of tissue is removed and sent out for histopathology