In simple words: This procedure involves reopening a surgical cut in the belly to fix a problem that happened after a previous operation. The problem could be bleeding, a blood clot, or an infection. The surgeon will find the problem area, fix it, and then close the incision again.

The physician reopens a previous laparotomy incision to identify and address a postoperative complication involving blood vessels within the abdomen. This could include controlling hemorrhage, removing a thrombus, or addressing an infection.The procedure involves locating the source of the problem, taking necessary measures to correct it (e.g., ligation of a bleeding vessel, removal of infected tissue), and ensuring restoration of normal blood flow where applicable. The surgical wound is then closed, unless it needs to be left open for drainage.

Example 1: A patient experiences significant abdominal pain and signs of internal bleeding several days after abdominal surgery.An exploration reveals a leaking suture at the site of a previous vascular anastomosis, which is repaired., A patient develops signs of infection following a bypass procedure. The abdomen is re-explored and an abscess near the graft is drained., A patient develops a painful swollen leg after vascular surgery. Exploration reveals a postoperative thrombosis in the femoral vein, which is addressed by thrombectomy.

Documentation should include the operative report detailing the reason for re-exploration, findings, procedures performed, and any complications encountered.Pre-operative imaging studies or other diagnostic tests performed should also be included. Postoperative notes should document the patient's status and any ongoing management of the complication.