PubMed · 879248
Abdominal wound dehiscence.
Abstract
Abdominal wound dehiscence is a surgical complication with a high morbidity rate but which is associated with predictable and preventable factors. During a 10 year period (1966 to 1975) at the New York Lying-In Hospital, 70 cases were found on the obstetric-gynecologic service, and these cases were analyzed to see why dehiscence remains a problem. Those factors contributing to dehiscence include obesity, pre-existing pulmonary and cardiovascular problems, vertical incisions, the triad of ileus, vomiting, and coughing, and, to a lesser extent, hypoproteinemia, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, and wound infection. The incidence of abdominal wound dehiscence would be much lower if high-risk patients were identified, adequate pulmonary toilet was used, ileus was promptly treated with abdominal decompression, and strict attention was paid to electrolyte and protein balance in the pre- and post-operative period. The management of abdominal wound dehiscence is also discussed.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
B F Helmkamp. 1977-08-01. Abdominal wound dehiscence.. https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9378(77)90724-4
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.