Chanda Ramanachalam
BACKGROUND
The aim of the study is to-
1. Assess the association and prevalence of risk factors involved in causing post laparotomy wound dehiscence.
2. Identify the type of disease involved in causing abdominal wound dehiscence.
3. Effectively manage cases of wound dehiscence.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Total 50 cases clinically presenting as gaping of abdominal wound and discharge from the site during the period of October 2014 to April 2016 were taken for study. Patients presenting with abdominal wound dehiscence after undergoing elective or emergency operation Each case was examined clinically and properly in systematic manner and an elaborative study of history based on chief complaints, significant risk factors, investigations, time and type of surgery performed and postoperative events and day of onset of wound dehiscence.
RESULTS
Males outnumbered females with 64% males and 36% females. Patients in the age group of 41-50 years and 51-60 years found to have highest incidence of abdominal wound dehiscence. Mean age of the patients affected was 48.02 years. Incidence of abdominal wound dehiscence is more common in patients with peritonitis due to duodenal and appendicular perforation than in case of intestinal obstruction. Incidence of abdominal wound dehiscence is more common in patients who are operated in emergency than elective (35:15). Surgical procedures, which included perforation closure carried higher incidence of wound dehiscence. Patients operated with midline incision carried higher risk for wound dehiscence than those operated with paramedian incisions. Incidence of abdominal wound dehiscence is more common in patients having their BMI >25 and anaemia (Hb% <10 g%). Average stay was 22 days, which increased both economic burden on patient and hospital. Out of 50 cases, 48 survivals and 2 were mortals. Partial wound dehiscence was conservative management, i.e. healing by secondary intention was observed in 32 patients and 8 patients had undergone secondary suturings, 10 patients had undergone complete wound dehiscence, i.e. tension suturing.
CONCLUSION
Surgical factors like midline incisions, improper suture technique and improper aseptic precautions may lead to wound infection and then wound dehiscence.
