Intermediate
Technical
IVT
midline laparotomy
A surgical incision made vertically through the linea alba, providing rapid access to the abdominal cavity.
Full Definition
Midline laparotomy is the standard emergency abdominal incision, made vertically through the linea alba from xiphoid to pubis or a portion thereof. This approach provides excellent exposure for emergency procedures while minimizing bleeding since the linea alba is relatively avascular. The incision can be rapidly made and extended as needed during emergency surgery. It's preferred over other incisions in unstable patients requiring immediate abdominal exploration for trauma or acute surgical emergencies.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'median' in medical contexts where precision is required.
In Context
- "The surgeon performed a midline laparotomy for rapid exploration of the penetrating abdominal wound." — Emergency surgery operative report
- "Midline laparotomy was extended cephalad when hepatic injury was discovered." — Trauma surgery documentation
Also known as
vertical midline incision
emergency laparotomy incision
Contrasted with
transverse incision
oblique incision
Don't confuse with
paramedian incision
median sternotomy