evisceration
Pronunciation: ih-VIS-er-AY-shun
Protrusion of abdominal contents through a traumatic defect in the abdominal wall.
Full Definition
Evisceration is the protrusion of internal organs or intestinal contents through a full-thickness defect in the abdominal wall following trauma. This represents a surgical emergency requiring immediate attention to prevent further injury to exposed organs, contamination, and loss of domain. The protruding organs should be covered with moist sterile dressings and the patient should receive nothing by mouth pending urgent surgical repair. Evisceration may occur with initial injury or as a delayed complication of abdominal wall disruption.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from simple wound dehiscence where organs remain contained within the peritoneum.
In Context
- "The patient presented with traumatic evisceration requiring emergent surgical repair." — Emergency department assessment
- "Small bowel evisceration was managed with immediate return to the operating room." — Postoperative complication note