Signs and Symptoms of Dehiscence - Bleeding - Pain - Inflammation - Fever - Spontaneous opening of the wound

Causes of Dehiscence - Sub-acute infection resulting from inadequate aseptic technique - Breakdown of coated sutures in the presence of bacteria - Inadequate undermining of the wound during surgery - Excessive tension on the wound edges - Wounds located in highly mobile or high-tension areas

Risk Factors for Dehiscence - Obesity - Smoking - Previous scarring - Surgical errors - Chronic use of corticosteroids - Increased abdominal pressure - Use of nicotine in any form

Prevention of Dehiscence - Adequate tissue undermining to reduce stress on wound edges - Avoiding heavy lifting - Speeding healing through adequate nutrition - Controlling diabetes - Avoiding certain medications such as corticosteroids - Use of sterile strips to cover skin sutures

Treatment of Dehiscence - Allowing granulation - Re-cutting and suturing the edges - Providing prophylactic antibiotics - Exposure to air - Debridement - Frequent dressing changes