Name of the Procedure:

Duodenotomy
Common terms: Open duodenal exploration, duodenal surgery

Summary

A duodenotomy is a surgical procedure wherein an incision is made in the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) to explore, take biopsies, or remove foreign bodies.

Purpose

This procedure addresses issues such as obstructions, ulcers, tumors, or foreign bodies in the duodenum. The main goals are to diagnose problems more accurately, obtain tissue samples, or remove obstructions.

Indications

• Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
• Suspicion of tumors or cancer in the duodenum
• Obstructions or blockages
• Presence of foreign bodies that cannot be removed endoscopically
• Unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding

Preparation

• Patients often need to fast for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Certain medications may need to be adjusted or halted.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests often include blood tests, imaging studies (like a CT scan or MRI), and possibly an endoscopy.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered general anesthesia to ensure they are unconscious and pain-free.
2. A surgical incision is made in the abdominal area to access the duodenum.
3. The surgeon examines the duodenum, takes biopsies, or removes any foreign bodies or obstructions.
4. The incision in the duodenum is carefully closed, and the abdominal wound is sutured.
5. The patient is monitored as they recover from anesthesia.

Duration

The procedure typically lasts between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

Duodenotomy is performed in a hospital setting, usually in an operating room.

Personnel

• Surgeons specializing in gastrointestinal or general surgery
• Anesthesiologists
• Surgical nurses and support staff

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding
• Perforation of the intestine
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Postoperative pain
• Formation of scar tissue leading to bowel obstruction

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment
• Relief from obstruction or discomfort
• Potential early detection of malignancies
• Potential for complete removal of foreign bodies

Recovery

• Hospital stay for observation, typically 3 to 7 days
• Pain management with medications
• Gradual reintroduction of diet starting with liquids
• Avoiding strenuous activity for several weeks
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and discuss biopsy results

Alternatives

• Endoscopic procedures for less invasive exploration or foreign body removal
• Non-surgical management with medications and monitoring for certain conditions
• Imaging studies for diagnostic purposes without tissue sampling

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient is under general anesthesia and will not feel anything. Postoperatively, the patient might experience pain, which is managed with medications. Discomfort from the incision site and temporary dietary restrictions are common. Full recovery typically takes a few weeks, during which patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting or vigorous activities.