Comparative study of non-absorbable versus delayed absorbable suture material and suturing technique in midline abdominal closure

Abstract

Introduction: Closure of the abdominal wall is a routine procedure and one of the first things a surgeon is taught in his career. Secure wound closure is an essential requirement for an uncomplicated and expedient recovery after an abdominal operation. Methodology: We assessed, wound infection rates in 320 patents in the four randomized groups according to the suture and technique of closure used. Patients were followed for a period of 2 weeks and using well set definition were placed in infected, uninfected and burst abdomen. Results: Older age, male sex, diabetes, anemia malnutrition and sepsis were found to be highly significant risk factor for wound infection. Suture material (Prolene vs Vicryl) and technique (continuous vs interrupted) arms did not showed statistically significant differences outcomes in regard to wound infection rates, however there appears to be less incidences of wound sinus formation with delayed absorbable sutures(Vicryl). Conclusion: Closure of a mid-line laparotomy wound can be done by using either Prolene or Vicryl suture material, with either continuous or an interrupted fashion. Continuous technique is time saving and delayed absorbable suture (Vicryl) results in less wound sinus formation.