Final answer:
Curare is used during abdominal surgery to cause muscle relaxation and paralysis, facilitating a smoother surgical procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Curare, a compound similar to snake toxins, is used during abdominal surgery to cause muscle relaxation and paralysis. It blocks the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that initiates muscle contractions.
By inhibiting acetylcholine release in the neuromuscular junction, curare prevents muscle spasms and facilitates a smoother surgical procedure.
This muscle relaxation is particularly important for abdominal surgeries because it allows surgeons to access and manipulate internal organs without causing damage or complications.