Disrupted abdominal laparotomy wounds in gynaecologic oncology patients: benefits of active surgical re-closure.

Objective: To assess the outcome of active management of disrupted wounds through surgical approximation and re-closure.

Method: A prospective, non-comparative study, on all consecutive patients with disrupted laparotomy wounds treated at a tertiary medical centre, from November 2009 to December 2011. Data on patient demographics, diagnosis, type of abdominal incision, initial closure technique, infections and results of secondary re-closure were collected from the medical files. All patients underwent bedside closure with an en bloc mass suture mattress technique, performed by two attending gynaecologic oncologists.

Results: Of 197 patients who underwent abdominal laparotomy during the study period, 31 (16%) had a disrupted wound. Following surgical re-closure, 26 wounds (84%) were completely healed or needed only minor additional care by follow up on day 10. Five wounds (16%) failed primary management and required re-suturing; all subsequently healed. There were no long-term complications.

Conclusion: Active surgical re-closure of disrupted abdominal laparotomy wounds is safe and effective in patients after treatment surgically for Müllerian malignancies.