What is the medical term for an incision into the abdomen?

The medical term for an incision into the abdomen is laparotomy. This procedure typically involves a large incision made in the abdominal wall, allowing surgeons access to the abdominal cavity to diagnose or treat various conditions. It is often utilized in cases where internal organs are affected, such as during surgeries to remove tumors or to address trauma.

In contrast, a thoracotomy refers to an incision into the chest, primarily used for procedures involving the lungs or heart. A colostomy involves creating an opening from the colon to the outside of the body and is related to bowel surgery rather than an incision into the abdominal cavity itself. Gastroscopy pertains to the examination of the stomach using an endoscope, which does not involve an incision, but rather a minimally invasive procedure through the mouth. Understanding these distinctions is key in medical terminology and aids in recognizing various surgical procedures and their specific purposes.