Advertisement: Find topics A-Z ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ Open Surgery on the Abdomen This lesson explains why a laparotomy may be needed, what happens, its risks, and what to expect as you heal.Related topics: General Anesthesia Incision Care Preparing for Surgery Your Trip to the Hospital for Surgery - Pediatrics Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis Preventing an Infection After Surgery Diagnostic Laparoscopy - General