dehiscence
Pronunciation: dih-HISS-ents
Partial or complete separation of surgical wound layers, commonly involving skin edges or deeper tissue planes.
Full Definition
Wound dehiscence refers to the breakdown or separation of previously closed surgical incisions, ranging from superficial skin separation to complete disruption involving all tissue layers. In reconstructive surgery, dehiscence can compromise aesthetic outcomes and require revision procedures. Risk factors include infection, poor nutrition, tension on closure, and patient factors such as smoking or diabetes. Dehiscence is classified as superficial (skin only), partial (involving subcutaneous tissue), or complete (extending to fascia or deeper structures).
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with evisceration, which involves organ protrusion through the wound.
In Context
- "Superficial dehiscence at the T-junction required local wound care and secondary healing." — operative note
- "The patient's smoking history contributed to wound dehiscence despite meticulous closure technique." — case report