omental mobilization
Pronunciation: oh-MEN-tal mo-bil-ih-ZAY-shun
The surgical separation of the greater omentum from its attachments, often performed during abdominal oncologic procedures.
Full Definition
Omental mobilization is the surgical technique of separating the greater omentum from its attachments to the transverse colon, stomach, or other structures during abdominal surgery. This procedure is commonly performed during oncologic operations to facilitate exposure, remove potential sites of metastatic disease, or create tissue for reconstruction purposes. The omentum may be preserved for later use as a flap for coverage of anastomoses or raw surfaces, or it may be removed entirely as part of the oncologic resection when involved by tumor.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from omentectomy, which involves removal rather than just mobilization.
In Context
- "Omental mobilization revealed multiple small metastatic deposits requiring complete omentectomy." — Operative report
- "The mobilized omentum was used to buttress the pancreaticojejunostomy anastomosis." — Surgical case note