Postoperative Abdominal Wound Dehiscence: Understanding Risk Factors, Complications, Management, and Prevention Strategies

Postoperative abdominal wound dehiscence (AWD) is a significant and concerning complication. Where a surgical wound partially or completely reopens, sometimes leading to evisceration. This article reviews AWD, covering its definition, risk factors, causes, complications, management, and prevention. The incidence ranges from 0.4% to 3.5%, with mortality rates reaching 45%. Key risk factors encompass advanced age, male sex, excess body weight, diabetes, poor nutrition, long-term steroid use, as well as surgical methods and infections. Treatment varies from simple wound care to surgical repair, depending on severity. Effective prevention involves optimizing patient health before surgery, using careful surgical techniques, and providing thorough post-operative care. Despite improvements in surgical methods, research gaps remain regarding prevention and risk assessment. This article aims to be a helpful resource for healthcare professionals, enhancing understanding and managing postoperative abdominal wound dehiscence.