What is laparotomy?

After a laparotomy: When to call

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

• You passed out (lost consciousness).
• You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
• You have nausea and vomiting and cannot drink fluids, or you are no longer passing gas.
• You have loose staples or stitches, or your incision comes open.
• Bright red blood has soaked through the bandage over your incision.
• 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.
  • A color change on the leg or groin. The skin may be reddish or purplish, depending on your usual skin color.
• You have signs of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around your incision.
  • Red streaks leading from the incision.
  • Pus draining from the incision.
  • A fever.

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