Diagnostic peritoneal lavage

A technique for peritoneal lavage which has increased accuracy and eliminated complications is described. A curved incision is made to one side of the umbilicus at the level of the infraumbilical ring extending over the linea alba for 4 cm. The advantages of the site are its avascularity, paucity of peritoneal fat, and adherence of the peritoneum. By placing the incision at the infraumbilical ring, the rectus muscle is avoided. By adhering to the technique described, false lavage results and iatrogenic injuries to abdominal structures have been significantly decreased.