Study of Risk Factors in Patients with Post Lapartomy Wound Dehisence

Abstract

Background: Post-laparotomy wound dehiscence is a significant complication in abdominal surgeries, characterized by the partial or complete separation of the surgical wound layers. This complication can lead to severe morbidity, extended hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Objective: To assess the risk factors associated with wound dehiscence in patients post-laparotomy. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Surgery from January 25, 2024, to April 25, 2024. A total of eighty patients who developed wound dehiscence following emergency or elective laparotomy were selected. Patient demographics, comorbid conditions, and clinical variables were recorded. The risk factors for wound dehiscence, including peritonitis, infection, malignancy, hypoproteinemia, and anemia, were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with Chi-square tests employed to assess associations between risk factors and comorbid conditions. A significance level of P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Ethical approval was obtained, and the study adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki principles. Results: The mean age of patients was 42.67 ± 15.26 years. Males had a higher frequency of wound dehiscence compared to females. The identified risk factors included wound infection (47; 58.8%), malignancy (37; 46.2%), hypoproteinemia (35; 43.8%), anemia (30; 37.5%), and peritonitis (22; 27.5%). A significant association was found between hypertension and the risk factors of wound infection (P=0.01), malignancy (P=0.002), and hypoproteinemia (P=0.01). Conclusion: The study concluded that wound infection, malignancy, hypoproteinemia, anemia, and peritonitis are significant risk factors for wound dehiscence post-laparotomy. Hypertension showed a notable association with wound infection, hypoproteinemia, and malignancy. These findings underscore the importance of preoperative assessment and management of these risk factors to minimize the incidence of wound dehiscence.