GASTRO/GENSURG
WOUND CLOSURE
Prompt

ResponseWound dehiscence
Midline/paramedian laparotomy wound
Midline/paramedian laparotomy wound
PromptFactors contributing to poor wound healing
ResponsePatient factors
Age >65
Infection
diabetes/anaemia/malnutrition
Obestity
Steroid use
Increased abdominal pressure - coguing/vomiting
Emergency laparotomy
Perforated viscous
Surgical
Too much wound tension or loose knot
Inappropriate knot/technique
Inappropriate suture material
Haematoma at surgical siget
Foreign body
Age >65
Infection
diabetes/anaemia/malnutrition
Obestity
Steroid use
Increased abdominal pressure - coguing/vomiting
Emergency laparotomy
Perforated viscous
Surgical
Too much wound tension or loose knot
Inappropriate knot/technique
Inappropriate suture material
Haematoma at surgical siget
Foreign body
PromptInvestigations in wound dehiscence
ResponseFBC, CRP, wound swab, cultures, BSL/HbA1c
PromptPros/cons of different wound closure techniques
ResponseSteristrips
- Pro: quick/easy to apply, simple wound needing approximation, allow drainage
- Con: Risk of wound dehiscence, Canβt apply if tension/movement. Keep dry 72h
- Pro: Cosmesis = sutures, Infection rate = Sutures, quick
- Cons: risk of wound dehiscence, avoid on deep/irregular/tensioned wound
- Good approximation, less dehiscence
- Cons: Time consuming, local anesthetic required, needs removal
- Pro: Speed
- Con: cosmesis