What is an Exploratory Laparotomy?

An exploratory laparotomy is a surgical procedure that allows veterinarians to examine the abdominal cavity when other diagnostic tools—such as blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasounds—fail to provide a clear diagnosis. This procedure is often both diagnostic and therapeutic, meaning that if a problem is found, it can often be treated immediately during surgery.

When is Exploratory Laparotomy Necessary?

Veterinarians recommend an exploratory laparotomy when a pet exhibits serious, unexplained symptoms, including:

  • Chronic vomiting or diarrhea
  • Severe abdominal pain or bloating
  • Loss of appetite or rapid weight loss
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Suspected internal bleeding or organ damage
  • Foreign body ingestion leading to a blockage

Conditions that may require this surgery include:

  • Gastrointestinal obstructions (due to ingested foreign objects, tumors, or twisted intestines)
  • Peritonitis (abdominal infection)
  • Masses or tumors in the liver, spleen, or intestines
  • Internal bleeding from trauma or ruptured organs

Learn more about gastrointestinal blockages and treatment options at Cornell Veterinary Medicine.

Preparing Your Pet for Surgery

Initial Consultation and Diagnostics

At Groves Veterinary Clinic, we conduct a thorough pre-surgical assessment, including:

  • Physical examination to evaluate symptoms and overall health
  • Blood tests to check for infections, organ function, and clotting ability
  • X-rays or ultrasound to identify abnormalities in the abdomen

In some cases, a veterinarian may attempt less invasive diagnostics first, but if no clear diagnosis is reached, an exploratory laparotomy may be recommended.

Learn about gastrointestinal foreign bodies in small animals from ACVS.

How to Prepare Your Pet for Surgery

  • Fasting for 12-24 hours before surgery to prevent complications with anesthesia
  • Ensuring hydration unless instructed otherwise by the veterinarian
  • Following medication guidelines provided by our veterinary team
  • Bringing a blanket or toy to help comfort your pet before and after surgery

Proper preparation can reduce stress and improve surgical outcomes.

The Exploratory Laparotomy Procedure

What Happens During the Surgery?

  1. General anesthesia is administered for a pain-free experience.
  2. A small incision is made in the abdomen to allow for examination of the stomach, intestines, liver, kidneys, and other internal organs.
  3. Biopsies may be taken if abnormalities are found.
  4. If a foreign object, tumor, or diseased tissue is discovered, the veterinarian may perform immediate corrective surgery.
  5. The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and the pet is moved to postoperative monitoring.

Our surgical team at Groves Veterinary Clinic uses advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to reduce tissue trauma and speed up recovery.

Read more about exploratory surgery in pets.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

Immediate Postoperative Care

After surgery, pets are monitored for vital signs, pain levels, and potential complications such as bleeding or infection. Your pet may receive:

  • Pain management medication to keep them comfortable
  • Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and support organ function
  • Antibiotics to prevent infections

Most pets stay at the clinic for a few hours to a full day before being discharged, depending on their condition.

Home Care After Surgery

  • Keep your pet in a calm, quiet area to rest and recover.
  • Monitor the incision site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
  • Prevent licking or chewing by using an Elizabethan collar (cone) if necessary.
  • Follow dietary restrictions, which may include a bland diet for a few days.
  • Limit activity—no jumping, running, or rough play for at least 10-14 days.

Follow-up appointments are essential to ensure proper healing. Our team will schedule suture removal and check-ups as needed.

Common Questions About Exploratory Laparotomy

Is exploratory laparotomy risky?

As with any surgery, there are some risks, including infection, bleeding, or reactions to anesthesia. However, these risks are minimized with proper surgical techniques and post-op care.

How successful is exploratory surgery?

Success depends on the underlying condition. Early intervention greatly improves outcomes, especially for foreign body removal and tumor excision.

What signs should I watch for after surgery?

Seek veterinary attention immediately if your pet exhibits:

  • Lethargy beyond 48 hours
  • Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Excessive swelling or discharge from the incision site

Contact Groves Veterinary Clinic if you have any concerns during recovery.

A golden retriever lies on a vet's table, looking calm. A person in overalls gently pets its head. Two veterinary staff in blue scrubs and gloves tend to the dog, preparing for a procedure.

Why Choose Groves Veterinary Clinic for Your Pet’s Surgery?

  • Experienced Veterinary Surgeons – Our team specializes in advanced abdominal surgeries.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities – We utilize modern diagnostic imaging and minimally invasive techniques.
  • Compassionate Care – We prioritize your pet’s comfort, safety, and long-term health.
  • Personalized Post-Surgical Support – We provide detailed home care instructions and follow-up consultations.

Exploratory laparotomy is a life-saving procedure that helps veterinarians diagnose and treat serious abdominal conditions in pets. If your pet is showing signs of a potential internal issue, seeking prompt veterinary evaluation is crucial.

At Groves Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to delivering exceptional surgical care to ensure your pet’s health and well-being.

Schedule an appointment today.