Following open abdominal surgery, the abdomen needs to be closed.

The specific technique used for closure will vary, depending on the type of incision, the surgical procedure performed, surgeon’s preference, and sometimes the clinical setting.

The following 4 steps describe one method for closing the abdomen, while matching the procedures performed by the Surgeon with the items supplied by the Scrub.

The 4 steps listed here are not the only good way to close an abdomen. Alternative incisions, techniques, and tools can be used effectively for this purpose. Here is a brief video demonstrating a closure of a lower abdominal, transverse, pfannenstiel type incision.