Migratory Exploratory Laparotomy

Migratory exploratory laparotomy is one of the four types of psychosomatic disorders referred to as Münchhausen's Syndrome. Patients manifest symptoms of acute abdominal cavity disease. Thus, numerous diagnostic examinations are required, the results of which rarely produce a clear diagnosis. The surgeon, who during the course of his practice comes across patients suffering from the above-mentioned type of disorder, is often faced with the difficult decision of whether or not a exploratory laparotomy should be performed. The reasons behind the development of Münchhausen's Syndrome, which may be clarified by following a detailed patient history, will perhaps help to avoid unnecessary laparotomy.