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In the Industry Vocabulary Test
dehiscence
Pronunciation: deh-HISS-ens
Separation or opening of a surgical wound along the incision line.
Full Definition
A post-operative complication where a surgical incision fails to heal properly and reopens along the suture line. In oral surgery, dehiscence can occur due to excessive tension on the wound, infection, poor tissue quality, inadequate nutrition, or patient factors such as smoking. The condition may be superficial (affecting only soft tissue) or deep (extending to underlying structures). Treatment depends on the extent and may involve re-suturing, wound care, or allowing healing by secondary intention.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with 'dehiscence' in periodontics, which refers to gingival recession exposing root surface.
In Context
- "Minor dehiscence at the extraction site was managed with gentle irrigation and topical antibiotics." — Post-operative complication report
- "Patient education emphasized smoking cessation to reduce the risk of wound dehiscence." — Pre-operative counseling notes
Also known as
wound separation
Contrasted with
primary healing
Don't confuse with
evisceration
infection
necrosis