A surgical incision is a deliberate opening through the skin and soft tissue that gives access for an operation or procedure. Choosing and placing an incision affects exposure, safe operating conditions, healing, and recovery.
An incision provides a route to the tissues or organs that need treatment. More than one incision may be suitable for an operation, so the surgeon selects an approach based on the expected exposure required and the circumstances of the case. Personal preference may play a part, but choices also reflect anatomical and clinical considerations.
All flashcards
What is a surgical incision?
A cut through the skin and soft tissue made to provide access for an operation or procedure.
What does Kocher's principle say about incision length?
An incision should be as long as necessary to provide access and as short as possible beyond that need.
What is meant by operative exposure?
The access and view of the tissues or structures needed to perform the planned operation.
Why consider the location of a recent incision?
A nearby new incision may compromise blood flow to the skin between the two incisions.
What kinds of information can inform abdominal incision planning?
The tentative diagnosis, the patient's account, examination findings, and relevant imaging can help guide the choice.
Quiz questions
What anatomical approach does a median sternotomy use?Answer: It divides the sternum along the midline from the sternal notch to the xiphoid process.
Which structure does a midline laparotomy follow?Answer: The linea alba
Which incision is commonly used for Caesarean section and benign abdominal hysterectomy?Answer: The lower transverse Pfannenstiel incision
What distinguishes the Nyhus modification of the McEvedy approach?Answer: It uses a transverse or oblique incision above the inguinal ligament and moves the rectus medially.
Which tissue interaction is characteristic of a CO2 laser?Answer: Strong absorption by water, producing shallow penetration and a narrow cutting zone
Based on the Wikipedia article Surgical incision, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.