Abdominal Wall Dehiscence

Question 1

What are the 2 subdivisions of abdominal wall dehiscence?

Answer 1

1. superficial
2. complete

Question 2

Risk factors

Answer 2

Malnutrition
Vitamin deficiencies
Jaundice
Steroid use
Major wound contamination (e.g. faecal peritonitis)
Poor surgical technique (Mass closure technique is the preferred method-Jenkins Rule)

Question 3

Management

Answer 3

Coverage of the wound with saline impregnated gauze (on the ward)
IV broad-spectrum antibiotics
Analgesia
IV fluids
Arrangements made for a return to theatre