BACKGROUNDThis study is important in lieu of one of the most important complications associated with exploratory laparotomy i.e. burst abdomen or abdominal wound dehiscence, which is highly linked to the high morbidity and mortality of the diseased. MATERIALS AND METHODS40 patients were randomised to have the abdominal wall closed by interrupted-X technique and conventional continuous layered closure into two groups equally (group 1 and group 2 respectively). RESULTSIn interrupted-X group, wound dehiscence rate was found to be 15% as compared to 25% in the continuous group. Incidence of burst abdomen/incisional hernia in the two groups was 5% and 15% respectively at the end of 3 months. CONCLUSIONInterrupted-X technique was associated with decreased risk of wound dehiscence, burst abdomen and incisional hernia. Interrupted-X closure should be the preferred method of closure for abdominal fascia in exploratory laparotomies as there is decreased propensity for development of wound dehiscence, burst abdomen and incisional hernia with it.

A 42-year-old male presented to surgical OPD with a slow growing painless swelling in the left inguinal region since 3 years. He did not have history of similar swellings anywhere in the body. He did not have history of cough, fever, weight loss or any neurological deficits on the limb. On examination, the swelling was about 10 x 8 cms. on the left inguinal region with irregular margins, uneven surface, reddish discolouration, with no local rise of temperature and with areas of pressure necrosis.

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A twenty-year-old male patient presented in surgical emergency with history of blunt trauma to abdomen two weeks ago. The patient's only complaint was a vague abdominal pain after trauma, and he did not seek medical attention immediately.  After a week, he had severe abdominal pain, fever and loss of appetite and was treated in a local hospital. Later he was referred to our hospital.  He presented in our surgical emergency two weeks after the injury. On presentation patient was in shock with BP-80/60 mmHg, PR-120/min., temp-101. Abdomen was distended, tense and tender. On per rectal examination blood stained stools were present.  In x-rays, no air under diaphragm was seen and, in the ultrasound, only mild fluid collection in the pelvis was seen.