RT Book, Section A1 Hoffman, Barbara L. A1 Schorge, John O. A1 Bradshaw, Karen D. A1 Halvorson, Lisa M. A1 Schaffer, Joseph I. A1 Corton, Marlene M. SR Print(0) ID 1125293383 T1 Surgeries for Benign Gynecologic Disorders T2 Williams Gynecology, 3e YR 2016 FD 2016 PB McGraw-Hill Education PP New York, NY SN 978-0-07-184908-1 LK obgyn.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1125293383 RD 2024/10/14 AB Abdominal entry is the first step for many gynecologic surgeries. Either vertical or transverse incisions may be used, and each offers particular advantages. Vertical incisions may be midline or paramedian, but of the two, the midline is chosen more often. This incision offers quick entry, minimal blood loss, superior access to the upper abdomen, generous operating room, and the flexibility for easy wound extension if greater space or access is needed. No important neurovascular structures traverse this incision. Thus, it may be favored for patients using anticoagulation agents. Despite advantages, midline incisions are more frequently associated with greater postoperative pain, poorer cosmetic results, and increased risks of wound dehiscence or incisional hernia compared with low transverse incisions. Last, for those with prior laparotomy, the incision type is typically repeated for subsequent surgeries.