Name of the Procedure:

Omentectomy, Epiploectomy, Resection of Omentum (separate procedure)

Summary

An omentectomy, also known as an epiploectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the omentum, a layer of fatty tissue that covers and supports the intestines and organs in the lower abdomen.

Purpose

The procedure is performed to treat or manage conditions such as cancer spread to the omentum, infections, or severe endometriosis. The goal is to remove diseased tissue to improve outcomes and reduce symptoms or complications from the underlying condition.

Indications

• Presence of cancerous or benign tumors in the omentum
• Infections causing abscesses in the omentum
• Severe endometriosis affecting the omentum
• Uncontrolled bleeding within the omentum

Preparation

• Patients must typically fast for 8 to 12 hours before the procedure.
• Doctors may adjust medications, especially blood thinners.
• Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs may be required to assess the extent of the condition.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered general anesthesia for full sedation.
2. A surgical incision is made in the abdomen to access the omentum.
3. The omentum is carefully separated and removed using surgical instruments.
4. Any other necessary surgical interventions are performed (e.g., removing tumors).
5. The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.

Setting

Omentectomy is usually performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Surgeons specialized in abdominal or oncologic surgery
• Surgical nurses and assistants
• Anesthesiologists

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Injury to surrounding organs
• Blood clots
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Removal of cancerous or infected tissue
• Potentially increased survival rate in cancer patients
• Resolution of symptoms such as pain or obstruction

Recovery

• Patients are typically monitored in the hospital for a few days post-surgery.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Gradual return to normal activities over several weeks.
• Follow-up appointments for wound care and monitoring recovery.

Alternatives

• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer that has spread to the omentum.
• Antibiotic treatment for infections, if manageable without surgery.
• Hormone therapy or conservative surgery for endometriosis.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients will be under general anesthesia and unaware of the operation. Post-surgery, patients might experience pain and discomfort which will be managed with medication. They may feel fatigued and will need to follow specific care instructions for optimal recovery, including wound care and activity restrictions.