Exploratory laparotomy

After an exploratory laparotomy: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).
• You are short of breath.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
• You cannot pass stools or gas after your surgery.
• You are sick to your stomach and cannot drink fluids.
• You have loose staples or stitches, or your incision comes open.
• You have signs of a blood clot in your leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
  • Pain in your calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
  • Redness and swelling in your leg or groin.
• You have signs of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the incision.
  • Pus draining from the incision.
  • A fever.
• Bright red blood has soaked through the bandage over your incision.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.