Laparotomy
（重定向自Coeliotomy）
![](/Images/godic/202501/05/Scheme_body_cavities-en.svg1303.png")
A laparotomy is a surgical procedure involving a large incision through the abdominal wall to gain access into the abdominal cavity. It is also known as a celiotomy. The first successful laparotomy was performed without anesthesia by Ephraim McDowell in 1809 in Danville, Kentucky.