A Prospective Study of Factors Affecting Post Laparotomy Abdominal Wound Dehiscence

Abstract

Background: Break in continuity of the skin with or without deeper tissues, following laparotomy, results in abdominal wound dehiscence. This study was done to evaluate the risk factors that lead to wound dehiscence in the postoperative period. Aim- this study was conducted to analyze various factors which are responsible for post-laparotomy wound dehiscence. Material and Methods: This was a prospective study done on 120 patients who developed wound dehiscence following laparotomy. The pre-operative investigations, intraoperative ndings, and any postoperative complications were recorded in a specied Performa. Results: The highest incidence of wound dehiscence was found to be in patients of the second to a fourth decade, with male preponderance. patients were found to be malnourished cachexia (BMI<22) and 99 patients were anemic. 86 (71.67)had low serum albumin, 16% had raised serum bilirubin and 4 patients were diabetics. Decreased renal function was found in 87 (72.5) patients.. In 54 (45%) of patients, laparotomy wounds were either contaminated or dirty. Post-operative nausea and vomiting were found in patients. Conclusions : Abdominal wound dehiscence after laparotomy is a surgical emergency with high morbidity and mortality leading to an escalation in hospital costs and prolonged illness. This complication can be avoided if the factors involved in wound dehiscence are properly addressed.