Exploratory laparotomy for biopsies

摘要

Exploratory laparotomy for biopsies is most commonly indicated as part of investigation for chronic weight loss, vomiting or diarrhoea, or if preoperative work-up reveals abnormalities of specific organs and samples are required for definitive diagnosis. Although, full-thickness biopsy specimens offer several advantages over those obtained via endoscopy; the decision to perform this technique should be taken after weighing up the increased morbidity versus the increased odds of obtaining a definitive diagnosis,' There is controversy as to whether low preoperative albumin is a risk factor for intestinal dehiscence2; if serum albumin is <20g/L, consider transfusing with stored or fresh, frozen plasma or administering human serum/canine albumin.