Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
dehiscence
Pronunciation: dee-HIS-ens
Wound breakdown or separation of previously closed surgical margins.
Full Definition
Dehiscence refers to the partial or complete separation of wound edges that were previously sutured together. In oral maxillofacial surgery, this complication can occur due to infection, excessive tension, poor blood supply, or patient factors such as smoking or diabetes. Management may require reclosure, antimicrobial therapy, or healing by secondary intention.
In Context
- "Partial dehiscence occurred at the extraction site on post-operative day five." — complication report
- "The dehiscence was managed with local wound care and antibiotic therapy." — treatment note
Also known as
wound breakdown
wound separation
Contrasted with
primary healing
Don't confuse with
infection
delayed healing