Surgical wound dehiscence, in which the edges of a sutured surgical wound separate, is a serious complication with high morbidity rates. Diagnosing this condition is challenging for healthcare professionals due to varying definitions in the literature. Since 2018, a new definition and classification (grading system) of wound dehiscence has been introduced, but it is not yet used uniformly. This dissertation demonstrates that training healthcare professionals in this definition and classification improves their ability to accurately diagnose surgical wound dehiscence. In plastic surgical breast reconstructions using autologous tissue, the risk of wound dehiscence is higher. To prevent wound dehiscence, a postoperative vacuum dressing was developed. It is applied immediately after surgery and remains in place for 5–7 days. The continuous suction aims to keep the wound edges together. This dissertation shows that the preventive use of a vacuum dressing reduces the risk of surgical wound dehiscence in these procedures.

Promotores : Ulrich, D.J.O., Vermeulen, H. Co-promotores : Laat, H.E.W. de, Hummelink, S.L.M.

Contains fulltext : 317878.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access)

Radboud University, 28 april 2025

159 p.