What does “open” refer to in the context of surgical procedures?

In the context of surgical procedures, the term "open" specifically refers to techniques that involve making larger incisions to access internal structures of the body. This method allows surgeons to have a direct view and access to the area being operated on, which is necessary for certain complex procedures. Open surgery contrasts with minimally invasive techniques, where smaller incisions are made, often involving cameras and specialized instruments to perform the surgery with less disruption to surrounding tissues.

Understanding the specifics of open surgery is important because it typically involves considerations such as longer recovery times, increased risk of infection due to larger wounds, and greater postoperative pain. Open procedures are often warranted when the complexity of the surgery or the condition of the patient necessitates direct access rather than the limited view provided by minimally invasive techniques. Therefore, in this context, recognizing that "open" describes the need for larger incisions helps clarify the different approaches to surgical procedures and their implications for patient care.