Exploration for postoperative hemorrhage, thrombosis or infection; abdomen
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Exploration for Postoperative Hemorrhage, Thrombosis, or Infection; Abdomen
Summary
This surgical procedure involves examining the abdominal area to identify and address complications such as bleeding, blood clots, or infections that may have arisen after a prior surgery.
Purpose
The procedure aims to identify and treat post-operative complications including bleeding (hemorrhage), blood clots (thrombosis), or infections within the abdominal cavity. The goal is to prevent further health issues and to promote recovery.
Indications
- Severe abdominal pain following surgery
- Signs of internal bleeding (e.g., low blood pressure, increased heart rate)
- Symptoms of infection (e.g., fever, redness, swelling)
- Suspicion of blood clots in the abdomen
Preparation
- Patients are usually instructed to fast for 8-12 hours before the procedure.
- Adjustments to medications, particularly blood thinners, may be required.
- Preoperative diagnostic tests, such as blood work or imaging scans (CT, MRI), to help localize the issue.
Procedure Description
- Anesthesia is administered (general anesthesia is typically used).
- The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen to access the surgical site.
- The abdominal cavity is carefully examined for sources of bleeding, clots, or signs of infection.
- Identified problems are treated — hemorrhage may involve cauterization or suturing, clots may be removed, and infections may be drained or treated with antibiotics.
- The incision is closed, and dressings are applied.
Duration
The procedure typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity and findings.
Setting
The procedure is performed in a hospital setting, often in an operating room.
Personnel
- Surgeon
- Surgical nurses
- Anesthesiologist
- Possible support staff such as surgical technologists
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Damage to surrounding organs
- Anesthesia-related risks
- Possible need for further surgeries
Benefits
The procedure can quickly address and resolve life-threatening complications, leading to stabilization and a better recovery trajectory. Benefits may be realized immediately or within a few days post-procedure.
Recovery
- Hospital stay for monitoring, typically a few days
- Pain management with prescribed medications
- Instructions on wound care and activity restrictions
- Follow-up appointments to monitor recovery
Alternatives
- Non-surgical management (e.g., antibiotics for minor infections)
- Imaging and less invasive procedures like drainage under imaging guidance However, surgery is often preferred for rapid and definitive treatment of serious complications.
Patient Experience
- Patients will be under general anesthesia and will not feel pain during the procedure.
- Post-operative discomfort and pain are expected, managed with medications.
- Patients may experience fatigue and limited mobility during the early recovery period.