Comparative evaluation of the advantages of single-layer closure to en-masse closure in the surgeries of the abdomen

Abstract

Background: Closure of the abdomen is a vital step in abdominal surgeries, with advent of newer techniques for suturing and suture material, repair technique, and incision, which has evoked great interest among surgeons.Aim: To comparatively evaluate the advantages of single-layer closure to en-masse closure in the surgeries of the abdomen.Subjects and Methods: 64 subjects randomly divided into two groups of 32 subjects each where Group I was closed with single-layer closure, and, Group II with layered closure. The subjects were assessed postoperatively on days 1, 3, 7, and 10, and were compared for burst abdomen, infection, and operative time. The follow-up was done every month for first 3 months and then after 6 months.Results: Wound infection incidence was higher in Group II (layer closure) compared to Group I (mass closure). In the Group I, elective surgery group, wound infection was seen in 1 subject with an abdomen burst. In emergency surgery group, wound infection was seen in no subject with abdomen burst and subjects without abdomen burst. In Group II (layered closure), in elective surgery group, wound infection was seen in 5 study subjects.