Laparotomy

Pre- and Post-Operative Instructions


Before Surgery

  1. Review the Herbal Medications Precautions Information Sheet.

  2. Do not take aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen, naprosyn) for (preferably) 10-14 days prior to surgery. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is fine to take.

  3. Two days prior to surgery: Begin taking simethicone tablets or liquid. There are many over the counter brand names such as D-Gel or Gas-X. Take the recommended dosage 3 times per day for two days.

  4. One day prior to surgery:
    1. Do not have any solid foods--LIQUIDS ONLY!! Ice cream and other creamy liquids are OK.
    2. Take Milk of Magnesia or other similar laxative, 2 tablespoons in the morning and again in the evening.
    3. Use a Fleet’s enema in the morning prior to surgery.
    4. If necessary, you may take a sleeping aid prior to midnight.

  5. Do not take anything by mouth--not even water--after midnight, unless instructed to do so for medication.

After Surgery

You will be brought to the recovery room for one to two hours for observation. During this time your family will not be allowed to see you. Your physician will speak with your family at this time.


You will be catheterized during the surgery, and the catheter will remain in place for approximately 24 hours. If you have bladder surgery or repair, the catheter may remain for more than 24 hours. Intravenous narcotics will typically be given for analgesia immediately postoperatively, with oral pain medication usually begun within 24 to 36 hours. You will be given a prescription for pain medication upon discharge from the hospital.


Once discharged from the hospital, take your temperature in the afternoon for 1 week. If it is over 100.4 degrees, contact the primary coordinator assigned to you. Also, if you have any foul-smelling or yellow drainage, or any significant redness or hot skin around any of your incisions, please notify us promptly. A small to moderate amount of bruising of the skin is normal. The adhesive tapes covering your incisions may be removed as they begin to get loosened 4 to 5 days after the operation. Expect some vaginal bleeding for 4 to 5 days also. Do not have intercourse or place anything in the vagina until seen for your postoperative visit. You may take baths or showers. Please refrain from driving or excessive activity until seen by your physician. Your surgery will be discussed with you in detail at your post-operative visit, which should be scheduled 2 to 3 weeks after surgery.