Fascial Dehiscence Research Articles

The evaluation of risk factors in fascia dehiscence after abdominal surgeries.

Despite the advances in surgical techniques and risk control practices in recent years, open wounds following abdominal laparotomy still have a high prevalence. The purpose of this study is to investigate the risk factors of fascia dehiscence (FD) in abdominal surgery patients. In this observational study, a total of 60 emergency and elective laparotomy patients were enrolled. For all patients, with (treatment) or without (control) wound dehiscence, a checklist was used to extract data from medical records regarding underlying diseases, suturing method, emergency or elective surgical procedure, duration of surgery less than 180 min, intraoperative bleeding, wound closure method, hernia repair, age, sex, smoking history, comorbidities, type of surgery, colostomy placement, wound complications, re-operation, mortality, wound complications including wound infection, wound dehiscence, incisional hernia, and anastomotic leak, and preoperative readiness assessments such as laboratory tests including C-reactive protein (CRP), Albumin (Alb), etc., were completed, and then comparisons were made. Patients were examined in two groups: 14 patients (70%) in wound dehiscence with age 40-60 and 6 patients (30%) in non-wound dehiscence with age 60-75. Eight patients (40%) underwent elective surgery, and 12 patients (60%) underwent emergency surgery (P=0.2). Fourteen patients (70%) experienced mortality (P<0.001) and 13 patients (65%) had Alb less than 3 (P<0.001). Fourteen patients (70%) had drain installation (P=0.02). It was determined that the increase in CRP levels (compared to pre-dehiscence levels) was observed in 17 out of 20 cases, with the highest difference being CRP=91 and an average increase of 30. None of the patients suspected of anastomotic leakage were confirmed to have it. Dehiscence was typically diagnosed between the 4th and 7th days post-surgery. The colon and rectum were significantly more associated with dehiscence, while the stomach had the lowest association among surgical sites. Based on this study, FD is more common in patients treated in the emergency room than in elective procedures. Mortality occurred more in patients with FD, and there is a significant relationship between FD with albumin less than 3 and drain placement.

A descriptive analysis of skin-only closure and Bogota bag techniques for achieving complete fascial closure in damage control abdominal surgery

BackgroundTemporary abdominal closure (TAC) techniques are essential in managing open abdomen cases, particularly in damage control surgery. Skin-only closure (SC) and Bogota bag closure (BBC) are commonly used methods for TAC, but their comparative effectiveness in achieving primary fascial closure (PFC) remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the rates of PFC between patients undergoing SC and BBC techniques for TAC in peritonitis or abdominal trauma cases at a tertiary care hospital.MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Surgical A Unit of Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, from January 2022 to July 2023. Approval was obtained from the institutional review board, and patient consent was secured for data use. Patients undergoing temporary abdominal closure using either skin-only or Bogota bag techniques were included. Exclusions comprised patients younger than 15 or older than 75 years, those with multiple abdominal wall incisions, and those with prior abdominal surgeries. Data analysis utilized SPSS version 25. The study aimed to assess outcomes following damage control surgery, focusing on primary fascial closure rates and associated factors. Closure techniques (skin-only and Bogota bag) were chosen based on institutional protocols and clinical context. Indications for damage control surgery (DCS) included traumatic and non-traumatic emergencies. Intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) was measured using standardized methods. Patients were divided into SC and BBC groups for comparison. Criteria for reoperation and primary fascial closure were established, with timing and technique determined based on clinical assessment and multidisciplinary team collaboration. The decision to leave patients open during the index operation followed damage control surgery principles.ResultsA total of 193 patients were included in this study, with 59.0% undergoing skin-only closure (SC) and 41.0% receiving Bogota bag closure (BBC). Patients exhibited similar demographic characteristics across cohorts, with a majority being male (73.1%) and experiencing acute abdomen of non-traumatic origin (58.0%). Among the reasons for leaving the abdomen open, severe intra-abdominal sepsis affected 51.3% of patients, while 42.0% experienced hemodynamic instability. Patients who received SC had significantly higher rates of primary fascial closure (PFC) compared to BBC (85.1% vs. 65.8%, p = 0.04), with lower rates of fascial dehiscence (1.7% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.052) and wound infections (p = 0.010). Multivariate regression analysis showed SC was associated with a higher likelihood of achieving PFC compared to BBC (adjusted OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3–3.8, p < 0.05).ConclusionIn patients with peritonitis or abdominal trauma, SC demonstrated higher rates of PFC compared to BBC for TAC in our study population. However, further studies are warranted to validate these results and explore the long-term outcomes associated with different TAC techniques.

A prospective single-arm clinical trial to assess the safety and efficacy of monofilament polydioxanone barbed suture, MONOFIX®, on abdominal fascial closure.

For abdominal fascial closure, the choice of optimal suture material and appropriate suture technique are of paramount importance to prevent the incidence of incisional hernia. Although barbed sutures are widely used in various surgical fields, their safety and feasibility on abdominal fascial closure which requires the most tensile strength for security have not been established yet. We conducted a prospective, single-arm, interventional clinical trial to present the postoperative outcomes of using barbed sutures in abdominal fascial closure between April 2021 and August 2021. Patients with colorectal cancer who underwent minimally invasive surgery in elective setting were included. For all participants, monofilament polydioxanone barbed suture, MONOFIX®, was used to secure the abdominal fasica. The primary outcome was the 1-year incidence of incisional hernia assessed by computed tomography. A total of 30 patients were included. The median fascial incision length and suture length were 6.5cm (range, 6-7.5cm) and 31cm (range, 27.5-39.0cm), respectively. The median procedure time of abdominal fascial closure was 4min (range, 3-9min). There was no incidence of unexpected event related to suturing including suture cutting, stopper separation from threads, and suture loosening. One case of superficial surgical site infection occurred during postoperative hospital stays. There was no fascial dehiscence, incisional hernia, and adhesive ileus during a median follow-up period of 17.5months. Monofilament polydioxanone barbed suture, MONOFIX®, may be used safely and effectively on abdominal fascial closure. NCT05872334.

Vacuum assisted closure therapy in children with complicated abdominal wounds, with or without viscero-cutaneous fistulae

BackgroundManagement of complicated abdominal wounds is challenging in children. Vacuum-assisted closure proved to be beneficial. We aimed to report the outcome of VAC over 5 years’ practice in complicated abdominal wounds with or without viscero-cutaneous fistulae. MethodsRetrospective review of children managed by VAC over 5 years, from January 2017 to December 2022. Included patients had complicated abdominal wounds. Customized VAC devices with continuous negative pressure were used for all patients. The applied pressure was tailored according to the patient's age and the wound condition. ResultsNineteen patients were included, their ages ranged from 3 months to 15 years. Peritonitis was the main pathology in 12 patients, abdominal wall infection in 4, and a combination of both in 3. VAC was applied over closed wounds in 10 patients and over open wounds in 9; 6 of them had cutaneous fistulae. The median duration of VAC application over closed wounds was 7.5 days, while it was 10 days in open wounds. VAC promoted healing in closed and narrow-gapped wounds, while it was successfully used as a bridging therapy in 4 patients with wide-gapped wounds. Patients with viscero-cutaneous fistulae were successfully managed without further surgical intervention. VAC was complicated by fascial dehiscence with evisceration and incisional hernia in two patients. ConclusionVAC could be beneficial to complicated abdominal wounds in pediatric age. It was helpful in managing small viscero-cutaneous fistulae.

SUTURE TECHNIQUES AND MATERIALS FOR FASCIAL CLOSURE OF ABDOMINAL WALL INCISIONS: HOW DO THEY COMPARE IN A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS?

Abstract Background The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate closure of laparotomy using different suture-materials and techniques. Methods A literature search was conducted till 11 October 2023. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies (PCSs) on laparotomy closure were included. The study quality was evaluated using the ROB2 and ROBINS-I checklists. The primary outcome was incisional hernia (IH), and secondary outcomes were fascial dehiscence (FD), combined-FD+IH, and surgical site infection (SSI). Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects models. Results A total of 73 RCTs and 26 PCSs were included. Slowly-absorbable suture materials were associated with a lower risk of IH (OR: 0.64; 95%CI: 0.47–0.86) and combined-FD+IH (OR: 0.76; 95%CI: 0.58–0.99) when compared to fast-absorbable sutures (5 studies, 2,262 patients). Non-absorbable suture material was not superior to any other suture material. Continuous-suturing was not superior to interrupted-suturing, neither was mass-closure superior to layered-closure for any of the outcomes. Small-bites technique with a slowly-resorbable suture in the elective-setting resulted in significantly less IHs (OR 0.42; 95%CI: 0.28–0.62), combined-FD+IH (OR 0.39; 95%CI: 0.22–0.72) and SSIs (OR 0.67; 95%CI: 0.52–0.83) compared to a large-bites technique (8 studies, 1,168 patients). In the emergency setting, the continuous Smead-Jones suturing significantly reduced the risks of IH (OR 0.22; 95%CI: 0.08–0.59), FD (OR 0.20; 95%CI: 0.11–0.34), combined-FD+IH (OR 0.08; 95%CI: 0.03–0.19), and SSI (OR 0.45; 95%CI: 0.26–0.79) compared to continuous-suturing (6 studies, 265 patients). Conclusions Closure of laparotomies using the small-bites technique is superior to large-bites techniques. In the emergency setting, the Smead-Jones technique seems a valid alternative.

LOSS OF DRAINAGE VACUUM AFTER MINIMAL INVASIVE SUBLAY OPERATION – EARLY INDICATOR FOR AN INTERPARIETAL HERNIA WITH SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION – A CASE REPORT

Abstract Background Newer repair techniques for abdominal wall hernias, such as the enchanced-view totally extraperitoneal technique or the mini- or less-open sublay operation are increasingly being used. With these new techniques special complications might occur. Case Report We present an 81-year-old patient with a recurrent ventral incisional hernia after IPOM repair. The preoperative abdominal CT scan showed the hernia defect, measuring 3 × 3 cm. A repair was performed in MILOS technique, the IPOM mesh was removed. The posterior the rectus sheath was closed under slight tension. A Mesh 15 × 15 cm without fixation and a 14 french Redon drainage were inserted. Over the next 4 postoperative days the drainage had a repeatedly loos of vacuum, until the patient developed clinical symptoms of a ileus. A CT scan showed a bowel dysfunction without a clear sign for incarceration. At this point, the suction drainage was without vacuum a total of seven times. A diagnostic laparoscopy was performed and a small bowel loop was found trapped between the implanted mesh and the posterior rectus sheath, as an interparietal retro-rectus hernia (iRRH). The intestinal loop could be removed, no necrosis or ischemia was found. The fascial defect was covered using vicryl mesh patch. Conclusion The role of vacuum drainage remains to be considered. Suction of remaining intraabdominal gas might occur due to fascia dehiscence and CT diagnostics can mislead surgeons decisions. Tension free fascial closure remains of capital importance. Mesh fixation, use of special stitching techniques, transversus-abdominis-release or preoperative application of botulinum toxin should be kept mind.

Vertical Mesh-Mediated Fascial Traction and Negative Pressure Wound Therapy: A Case Series of Nine Patients in General and Vascular Surgery.

Two patients in a vascular surgery unit and seven patients in an abdominal surgery unit with an OA were treated with VMMFT in combination with NPWT between September 2019 and June 2023. A DFC was achieved in seven of nine cases. The mean duration of OA was 9.6 ± 3.8 days, and fascial dehiscence at the beginning of OA was 14.2 ± 4.0 cm on average. Time to DFC after VMMFT was established was 6.2 ± 3.5 days (mean). No method-related complications occurred. The standardized combination of VMMFT and NPWT gave positive results in achieving DFC in our heterogenic patient group. Following a strict treatment pathway as shown here seems to improve OA outcome. It represents a promising further development of mesh-mediated fascial traction for OA treatment.

Enhancing Healing Strategies: Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy and Delayed Primary Closure in Abdominal Wounds Post-emergency Laparotomy for Intestinal Perforation.

Background Intestinal perforation is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate surgical intervention. Surgical-site infections (SSIs) and wound dehiscence are common complications associated with emergency laparotomy for intestinal perforation. Finding optimal wound management and postoperative strategies can significantly impact patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is a relatively recent tool employed in the care of wounds to control SSIs and foster healing. Methodology A prospective, observational, cohort study was conducted among 150 patients who underwent emergency exploratory laparotomy due to intestinal perforation at the general surgery department of a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi between July 2022 and December 2023. Preoperatively, all patients underwent initial resuscitation. Intraoperatively, the extent of peritonitis was determined and was categorized according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classification. Postoperatively, NPWT dressing was applied to the patient's midline laparotomy wound on postoperative day (POD) two.Negative pressure was set at 75-125 mmHg with suction. The number of NPWT dressing changes required was documented. The wound was closed with vertical mattress sutures under local anesthesia, delayed primary closure (DPC). The incidence of SSIs, the duration for DPC, the incidence of fascial dehiscence, the number of NPWT dressing changes, and the length of hospital stay were documented according to CDC groups. Results The mean age in CDC categories 2, 3, and 4 were 31.789, 28.733, and 42.676 years, respectively. The most common cause of perforation was enteric fever (n = 42, 28%), followed by tuberculosis (n = 36, 24%). Most patients had no known comorbidities (n = 80, 53.3%). Overall, 16% of patients (n = 24) were both alcoholics and smokers. The most frequent bacteria in all CDC categories was Escherichia coli. Fourteen patients developed burst abdomen in the postoperative period and were excluded from the study. The mean duration of DPC increased with higher CDC categories, with CDC category 4 displaying the most extended mean duration at 10.70 days. The number of NPWT dressing changes increases with higher CDC categories, with CDC category 4 exhibiting the highest mean at 2.00 changes. The mean hospital stay increased with higher CDC categories, with CDC category 4 showing the most extended mean stay at 17.324 days. Statistical analysis revealed no significant association between SSI occurrence and CDC categories. Conclusions NPWT followed by DPC is a promising approach to managing gastrointestinal perforations, reducing SSIs, and potentially improving patient outcomes. However, further research is needed to explore the specific benefits of NPWT in conjunction with DPC and its efficacy in various clinical scenarios.

An Analysis of the Impact of Intra-abdominal Pressure on Surgical Outcomes in Cases of Intestinal Obstruction: A Prospective Observational Study.

The decision and timing of surgical exploration of intestinal obstruction depend on the clinical findings and probable etiology of the symptoms. Patients with intestinal obstruction often have intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH), which is associated with a poor prognosis. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the surgical outcomes in patients with intestinal obstruction in relation to intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). The study was conducted on 50 patients with intestinal obstruction undergoing surgery. Preoperatively, IAP was measured in all the patients and was allocated into two groups based on the presence or absence of IAP. Patients were assessed for the postoperative length of hospital or ICU stay, surgical site infection, wound dehiscence, and recovery following surgery. The patients with preoperative IAH had significantly longer postoperative stays, with a median stay of eight days in these patients compared to four days in patients without IAH (p=0.009). A significantly higher number of patients (24%) had gangrenous changes on the bowel wall (p=0.042) and fascial dehiscence (p=0.018) in the group associated with raised IAP. A total of 75% of patients who required ventilator support belonged to the raised IAP group. The mean IAP in patients admitted to the ICU was significantly higher than in patients not admitted to the ICU (p=0.027). Preoperative IAH in intestinal obstruction is a significant factor in predicting the possibility of bowel ischemia with gangrene, perforation, intra-abdominal sepsis, surgical site infections, and prolonged hospital stay. Early surgical exploration and abdominal decompression must be considered in such cases.

Is barbed better? Evaluation of triclosan-coated barbed suture on wound complications following emergency laparotomy.

Emergent laparotomy is associated with significant wound complications including surgical site infections (SSIs) and fascial dehiscence. Triclosan-coated barbed (TCB) suture for fascial closure has been shown to reduce local complications but primarily in elective settings. We sought to evaluate the effect of TCB emergency laparotomy fascial closure on major wound complications. Adult patients undergoing emergency laparotomy were prospectively evaluated over 1 year. Patients were grouped into TCB versus polydioxanone (PDS) for fascial closure. Subanalysis was performed on patients undergoing single-stage laparotomy. Primary outcomes were SSI and fascial dehiscence. Multivariate analysis identified independent factors associated with SSI and fascial dehiscence. Of the 206 laparotomies, 73 (35%) were closed with TCB, and 133 (65%) were closed with PDS. Trauma was the reason for laparotomy in 73% of cases; damage-control laparotomy was performed in 27% of cases. The overall rate of SSI and fascial dehiscence was 18% and 10%, respectively. Operative strategy was similar between groups, including damage-control laparotomy, wound vac use, skin closure, and blood products. Surgical site infection events trended lower with TCB versus PDS closure (11% vs. 21%, p = 0.07), and fascial dehiscence was significantly lower with TCB versus PDS (4% vs. 14%, p < 0.05). Subanalysis of trauma and nontrauma cases showed no difference in SSI or fascial dehiscence. Multivariable analysis found that TCB decreased the likelihood of fascial dehiscence (odds ratio, 0.07; p < 0.05) following emergency laparotomy. Increased odds of fascial dehiscence were seen in damage-control laparotomy (odds ratio, 3.1; p < 0.05). Emergency laparotomy fascial closure with TCB showed significantly decreased rates of fascial dehiscence compared with closure with PDS and a strong trend toward lower SSI events. Triclosan-coated barbed suture was independently associated with decreased fascial dehiscence rates after emergency laparotomy. Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.

Herringbone stitch technique versus interrupted suturing technique for rectus closure in emergency laparotomy: A comparative study

Background: Midline laparotomy incisions provide easy and rapid access to the peritoneal cavity in case of emergency surgery and effective closure of the abdominal wall is crucial for optimal healing and reduced complications. Secure abdominal wall closure after any laparotomy is every surgeon’s aim. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to choose the better method of rectus closure by comparing the herringbone stitch technique with the interrupted suturing technique for rectus closure in emergency laparotomy. Materials and Methods: Fifty patients who underwent midline emergency laparotomy at MGM Medical College and MY Hospital, Indore, between January 2023 and April 2023 were included in our study. In 25 patients (Group A) herringbone stitch technique was used whereas in the other 25 patients (Group B) interrupted suturing technique for rectus closure was used and they were assessed based on the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI), superficial wound dehiscence, fascial dehiscence, and incidence of incisional hernia. Results: The incidence of SSI was comparable in both groups but the incidence of superficial wound dehiscence, fascial dehiscence, and incisional hernia is less in Group A. Conclusion: The herringbone stitch technique is better as compared to the interrupted suturing technique for rectus closure in emergency laparotomy.

Doxorubicin as Risk Factor for Fascial Dehiscence After CRS-HIPEC for Peritoneal Metastases.

Among postoperative complications, fascial dehiscence (FD) is registered in up to 10% of patients after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC). This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors related to FD after CRS-HIPEC. A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of consecutive patients who underwent CRS-HIPEC between 2015 and 2023 was performed. For each patient, risk factors for postoperative fascial dehiscence were identified using multivariate analysis. During the study period (2018-2023), 217 patients were treated with CRS-HIPEC. The incidence of FD was observed in seven cases (3.2%), which were reoperated with direct fascial closure. In three cases, FD was associated with other grade III-IV complications. Body mass index, (BMI; p=0.024), doxorubicin-based HIPEC (p=0.005), and open technique (p=0.004) were identified as risk factors for FD in univariate analysis. Systemic chemotherapy, prior surgical score, and peritoneal cancer index (PCI) were not associated with an increased risk of FD. In multivariable regression analysis, doxorubicin-based HIPEC and open technique were confirmed as risk factors for FD. Although FD is a relatively rare event after CRS-HIPEC, open technique and doxorubicin-based HIPEC were significant predictors of this complication. Specific fascial closure techniques and proper wound care should be considered in high-risk patients.

Small bites versus large bites during fascial closure of midline laparotomies: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Incisional ventral hernias (IVH) are common after laparotomies, with up to 20% incidence in 12months, increasing up to 60% at 3-5years. Although Small Bites (SB) is the standard technique for fascial closure in laparotomies, its adoption in the United States is limited, and Large Bites (LB) is still commonly performed. We aim to assess the effectiveness of SB regarding IVH. We searched for RCTs and observational studies on Cochrane, EMBASE, and PubMed from inception to May 2023. We selected patients ≥ 18years old, undergoing midline laparotomies, comparing SB and LB for IVH, surgical site infections (SSI), fascial dehiscence, hospital stay, and closure duration. We used RevMan 5.4. and RStudio for statistics. Heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistics, and random effect was used if I2 > 25%. 1687 studies were screened, 45 reviewed, and 6 studies selected, including 3 RCTs and 3351 patients (49% received SB and 51% LB). SB showed fewer IVH (RR 0.54; 95% CI 0.39-0.74; P < 0.001) and SSI (RR 0.68; 95% CI 0.53-0.86; P = 0.002), shorter hospital stay (MD -1.36days; 95% CI -2.35, -0.38; P = 0.007), and longer closure duration (MD 4.78min; 95% CI 3.21-6.35; P < 0.001). No differences were seen regarding fascial dehiscence. SB technique has lower incidence of IVH at 1-year follow-up, less SSI, shorter hospital stay, and longer fascial closure duration when compared to the LB. SB should be the technique of choice during midline laparotomies.

Is Immobilization Technique Associated With Postoperative Pubic Rami Diastasis Following Bladder Exstrophy Closure?

Pelvic osteotomies relieve tension of the bladder and fascial closures during bladder exstrophy repair. Multiple techniques for postoperative immobilization of the pelvis and lower extremities have been described. The primary aim of this study was to assess differences in short and long-term changes in pubic rami diastasis when comparing Bryant traction to spica cast immobilization. Secondary aims included a comparison of length of stay, skin-related complications, and urologic outcomes. We performed a single-institutional retrospective review of bladder exstrophy patients younger than 18 months of age who underwent posterior pelvic osteotomy and bladder exstrophy closure from April 2005 to April 2020. Short-term and long-term pubic rami diastasis were defined as postoperative measurements ≤6 months and ≥12 months, respectively. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, pressure ulcer, skin rash/abrasion, urethrocutaneous fistula, and bladder or fascial dehiscence rates. Multivariable logistic regression assessed for an association between immobilization type and degree of diastasis while controlling for age at the time of diastasis measurement and sex. Fifteen patients underwent Bryant traction and 36 patients underwent spica cast immobilization. In both the short-term and long-term, there was a greater reduction in pubic diastasis in the spica cast group ( P = 0.002 and P = 0.05, respectively). After adjustments, there were higher odds of having a greater reduction in pubic rami diastasis in both the short-term (odds ratio: 2.71, 95% CI: 1.52-4.86, P = 0.001) and long-term (odds ratio: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.00-5.80, P = 0.05). Length of stay was significantly higher in Bryant's traction group (26 vs 19 d, P < 0.001). Rates of pressure ulcers were higher in the Bryant traction group (26.7% vs 0%, P = 0.005). Rates of skin rash/abrasions, urethrocutaneous fistula, and bladder/fascial dehiscence did not differ. Spica cast immobilization is a safe and effective immobilization method. Compared with Bryant traction, spica cast immobilization was associated with a greater reduction in postoperative pubic diastasis both short and long-term, along with a shorter length of hospitalization and reduced rate of pressure ulcers. Level III-therapeutic study.

Prophylactic mesh augmentation in emergency laparotomy closure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis.

Prophylactic mesh augmentation in emergency laparotomy closure is controversial. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating the placement of prophylactic mesh during emergency laparotomy. We performed a systematic review of Cochrane, Scopus, and PubMed databases to identify RCT comparing prophylactic mesh augmentation and no mesh augmentation in patients undergoing emergency laparotomy. We excluded observational studies, conference abstracts, elective surgeries, overlapping populations, and trial protocols. Postoperative outcomes were assessed by pooled analysis and meta-analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4. Heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistics. Risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB 2). The review protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42023412934). We screened 1312 studies and 33 were thoroughly reviewed. Four studies comprising 464 patients were included in the analysis. Mesh reinforcement was significantly associated with a decrease in incisional hernia incidence (OR 0.18; 95% CI 0.07-0.44; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%), and synthetic mesh placement reduced fascial dehiscence (OR 0.07; 95% CI 0.01-0.53; p = 0.01; I2 = 0%). Mesh augmentation was associated with an increase in operative time (MD 32.09min; 95% CI 6.39-57.78; p = 0.01; I2 = 49%) and seroma (OR 3.89; 95% CI 1.54-9.84; p = 0.004; I2 = 0%), but there was no difference in surgical-site infection or surgical-site occurrences requiring procedural intervention or reoperation. Mesh augmentation in emergency laparotomy decreases incisional hernia and fascial dehiscence incidence. Despite the risk of seroma, prophylactic mesh augmentation appears to be safe and might be considered for emergency laparotomy closure. Further studies evaluating long-term outcomes are still needed.

Comparison between high transverse and low transverse Pfannenstiel skin incisions during cesarean delivery for morbidly obese patients

Objective This study aimed to evaluate if placement of transverse cesarean skin incision above or below the overhanging pannus is associated with wound morbidity in morbidly obese patients. Study Design We identified a cohort of patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥40 kg/m2 undergoing cesarean delivery at a single center from 2017-2020 with complete postpartum records. Data was abstracted after institutional review board exemption, and patients were grouped by low transverse or high transverse skin incision. The primary outcome was a composite of wound infection, fascial dehiscence, incisional hernia, therapeutic wound vacuum, and reoperation. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the composite, blood transfusion, operative time, and immediate neonatal outcome. T test and χ2 were used for continuous and categorical comparisons. Logistic regression was used to compute adjusted odds ratios for categorical outcomes and linear regression to compare operative times adjusting for factors associated with wound complications and surgical duration respectively. Results 328 patients met inclusion criteria: 65 with high transverse (infraumbilical and supraumbilical) and 263 with low transverse (Pfannenstiel) incision. 11% of patients had wound morbidity; high transverse incision was associated with 3.64-fold increased odds of composite wound morbidity (23.1% vs 8%, aOR 3.64, 95% CI 1.52-8.70) and 5.73-fold increased odds of wound infection (13.8% vs. 4.9%, aOR 5.73, 95% CI 1.83-17.96). Time from skin incision to delivery was 1.87 min longer (11.09 vs 14.98 min, β = 1.87, 95% CI 0.17-4.61). There was no significant difference in neonatal outcomes, non-low transverse hysterotomy, or total operative time. Conclusion High transverse skin incision for cesarean delivery was strongly associated with increased wound morbidity in morbidly obese patients.

A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Clinical Equivalence of PD Synth and PDS Polydioxanone Sutures.

Introduction Incisional hernia is a common complication of midline laparotomy that may develop even after several years of surgery. Abdominal fascia closure with ideal suture material reduces the incidence of incisional hernia. This study compared the clinical equivalence of PD Synth (Healthium Medtech Limited) and PDS(Ethicon, Johnson & Johnson) slowly absorbed polydioxanone suture with respect to the occurrence of incisional hernia, following elective/emergency midline laparotomy. Methods Eighty-eight subjects undergoing elective/emergency midline laparotomy were randomized to PD Synth (n=45) and PDS(n=43) groups of this prospective, multicenter, randomized (1:1), single-blind, two-arm, parallel-group study (December 2020-May 2023). Primary endpoint was incidence of incisional hernia, occurring within six and 12 months of surgery. Secondary endpoints included incidence of fascial dehiscence, surgical site infection (SSI), suture sinus, seroma, hematoma, scar tenderness, and re-suturing, and evaluation of operative data, hospital stay, intra-operative suture handling, pain, time to return to normal day-to-day activities and work, overall patient satisfaction score, and adverse events. Results One subject in both PD Synthand PDSgroups (p>0.05) developed incisional hernia at umbilicus 12 months post-laparotomy. In PDSgroup, one subject each had incidences of SSI on day 2, day 7, and one month, two subjects developed seroma on day seven, and one subject had readmission on one month; two subjects in PD Synthgroup developed superficial SSI (one month). Findings of other secondary endpoints were comparable between the groups. Conclusion Primary and secondary outcomes manifested that PD Synthand PDSslowly absorbed polydioxanone sutures are clinically equivalent, and can be used for abdominal fascial closure following midline laparotomy.

Primary Repair Versus Resection for AAST Grade I and II Colon Injuries: Does the Type of Repair Matter?

IntroductionThe management of traumatic colon injuries has evolved over the past two decades. Recent evidence suggests that primary repair or resection over colostomy may decrease morbidity and mortality. Data comparing patients undergoing primary repair versus resection are lacking. We sought to compare the outcomes of patients undergoing primary repair versus resection for low-grade colon injuries. MethodsA retrospective review of all patients who presented with American Association for the Surgery of Trauma grade I and II traumatic colon injuries to our Level I trauma center between 2011 and 2021 was performed. Patients were further dichotomized based on whether they underwent primary repair or resection with anastomosis. Outcome measures included length of stay data, infectious complications, and mortality. ResultsA total of 120 patients met inclusion criteria. The majority of patients (76.7%) were male, and the average age was 35.6 ± 13.1 y. Most patients also underwent primary repair (80.8%). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in arrival physiology or in injury severity score. Length of stay data including hospital length of stay, intensive care unit length of stay, and ventilator days were similar between groups. Postoperative complications including pneumonia, surgical site infections, fascial dehiscence, the development of enterocutaneous fistulas, and unplanned returns to the operating room were also all found to be similar between groups. The group who underwent resection with anastomosis did demonstrate a higher rate of intra-abdominal abscess development (3.1% versus 26.1%, P < 0001). Mortality between both groups was not found to be statistically significant (7.2% versus 4.3%, P = 0.4) ConclusionsFor low-grade (American Association for the Surgery of Trauma I and II) traumatic colon injuries, patients undergoing primary repair demonstrated a decreased rate of intra-abdominal abscess development when compared to patients who underwent resection with anastomosis.

A morbidly obese patient with large incisional hernia managed with posterior compartment separation sub-lay mesh placement

Most of the incisional hernias are diagnosed in first 3 years after the major abdominal surgery but some may take 9-10 years before the presentation after surgery. Risk factors to develop incisional hernia includes patient factors; advanced age, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, anemia, smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), immunosuppression, previous coronary intervention, renal disease requiring dialysis, recent weight loss and malnutrition. Surgery related risk factors includes intraoperative complication, suture technique, surgical site infections, fascial dehiscence and other postoperative complications. We are presenting of large incisional hernia, which have managed with posterior compartment separation. Large incisional ventral hernias following abdominal surgeries can pose significant challenges in management and quality of life for both patients. The Rives-Stoppa repair technique provides authentic and essential solution for management of large complex ventral hernias with reducing the risk of recurrence and providing long-term support to the abdominal wall.

0.05% Chlorhexidine Gluconate Irrigation in Trauma/Emergency General Surgical Laparotomy Wounds Closure: A Pilot Study

IntroductionPatients who undergo exploratory laparotomy (EL) in an emergent setting are at higher risk for surgical site infections (SSIs) compared to the elective setting. Packaged Food and Drug Administration–approved 0.05% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) irrigation solution reduces SSI rates in nonemergency settings. We hypothesize that the use of 0.05% CHG irrigation solution prior to closure of emergent EL incisions will be associated with lower rates of superficial SSI and allows for increased rates of primary skin closure. MethodsA retrospective observational study of all emergent EL whose subcutaneous tissue were irrigated with 0.05% CHG solution to achieve primary wound closure from March 2021 to June 2022 were performed. Patients with active soft-tissue infection of the abdominal wall were excluded. Our primary outcome is rate of primary skin closure following laparotomy. Descriptive statistics, including t-test and chi-square test, were used to compare groups as appropriate. A P value <0.05 was statistically significant. ResultsSixty-six patients with a median age of 51 y (18-92 y) underwent emergent EL. Primary wound closure is achieved in 98.5% of patients (65/66). Bedside removal of some staples and conversion to wet-to-dry packing changes was required in 27.3% of patients (18/66). We found that most of these were due to fat necrosis. We report no cases of fascial dehiscence. ConclusionsIn patients undergoing EL, intraoperative irrigation of the subcutaneous tissue with 0.05% CHG solution is a viable option for primary skin closure. Further studies are needed to prospectively evaluate our findings.