packing
Temporary placement of surgical gauze or sponges in body cavities to control bleeding or provide structural support.
Full Definition
Surgical packing involves the deliberate placement of gauze, laparotomy pads, or specialized materials within body cavities to achieve hemostasis or provide temporary structural support. In acute care surgery, packing is commonly used for damage control, allowing for bleeding control when formal repair is not immediately feasible. Common applications include hepatic packing for liver injuries, pelvic packing for bleeding fractures, and abdominal packing for diffuse hemorrhage. Packing materials must be carefully counted and documented to prevent retained foreign objects. Planned removal typically occurs within 24-48 hours during a scheduled return to the operating room.
Usage
Usage note: Specify anatomical location and material type. Always document pack count and removal plan.
In Context
- "Hepatic packing was performed for grade IV liver laceration with active bleeding." — Trauma operative report
- "All packing materials were removed during the planned second-look procedure." — Follow-up operative note