Incisions

Question 1

Laparotomy

Answer 1

Any incision made into the abdominal cavity. For Exploration or for a specific procedure.

Question 2

Midline Incision

Answer 2

The most commonly used incision, made longitudinally in the center of the abdomen along the LINEA ALBA between the muscles. Provides access to all 4 quadrants.

Question 3

Linea Alba

Answer 3

A fibrous band that runs vertically along the center of the anterior abdominal wall and receives the attachments of the oblique and transverse abdominal muscles. Also called white line.

Question 4

Paramedian (Right/Left)

Answer 4

Vertical incision, lateral and parallel to midline. Used for specific surgical procedures such as splenectomy.

Question 5

McBurney

Answer 5

The incision usually used for an appendectomy. begins 2 to 5 cm above the anterior superior iliac spine and runs parallel to the external oblique muscle of the abdomen.

Question 6

Oblique Inguinal

Answer 6

Incision Made in the area of the groin for herniorrhaphy.

Question 7

Subcostal

Answer 7

Incision made below the ribs to access organs such as the liver.

Question 8

Pfannenstial

Answer 8

Curving Transverse incision made just above the pubic bone (Bikini Incision)

Question 9

Umbilical

Answer 9

Incision made along Langer’s Lines (Pre-exisiting folds/creases in the umbilicus/belly button) either horrizontal or vertical.