Abdominal Surgery

Question 1

what is a laparotomy?

Abdominal Surgery

Answer 1

Opening of the abdominal wall and abdominal sheets to allow abdominal surgery.
- traditional: most often a vertical incision along th midline
- laproscopic: incision at the naval for the camera and then wherever the surgery is happening.

Question 2

what does preoperative PT involve for abominal surgery patients?

Abdominal Surgery

Answer 2

• Gentle abdominal exercises.
• Cardiovascular exercises: e.g. treadmills and cycling.
• Upper and lower limb strengthening exercises.
• Creating awareness of rehab following surgery.

Question 3

what problems can occur following abnominal surgery?

Abdominal Surgery

Answer 3

• Incision pain
• Temporary swelling of the incision
• Paralytic ileus: obstruction of the intestines.
• Lung collapse
• Temporary numbness and tingling
• Decreased mobility and activities of daily living

Question 4

What is a PTs involvement following surgery W1?

Abdominal Surgery

Answer 4

• Pain control modalities.
• Cryotherapy.
• Postural advice and breathing exercises.
• Supported cough.
• Exercises to move the pelvis and reduce back pain.
• Getting in and out of bed.

Question 5

What is a PTs involvement following surgery W2?

Abdominal Surgery

Answer 5

• Progression of transverse adnominal strengthening exercises.
• Progression of pelvic strengthening exercises.
• Advice on standing, moving and lifting.
• Upper limb exercises.

Question 6

What is a PTs involvement following surgery W5 onwards?

Abdominal Surgery

Answer 6

• Functional activities focusing on their full fitness level.
• Lifting light loads.

Question 7

why is PT important following abdominal surgery?

Abdominal Surgery

Answer 7

• Prevents chest complications such as infections leading to pneumonia or lung collapse.
• Prevents blood clots by increasing the patient’s mobility.
• Improves pain control by reducing stiffness and improving circulation. This allows the patient to return to their activities of daily living sooner.