What is wound evisceration?

What is wound evisceration?

• A. Total separation of wound layers with internal organs protruding through.
• B. Partial dehiscence of wound edges.
• C. A minor superficial wound with bleeding.
• D. A closed incision with subcutaneous air.

Answer: (A)

Wound evisceration is the complete separation of wound layers with internal organs protruding through the wound. It represents a dangerous, emergency level of wound dehiscence, where viscera (often bowel) come out of the incision. This is different from partial dehiscence, where only the edges separate but no organs protrude. Immediate actions focus on protecting the exposed tissues and getting urgent care: cover the protruding organs with sterile, saline-moistened gauze to keep them moist and prevent contamination, keep the patient still and in a position that minimizes abdominal strain (often supine with the knees bent), and prepare for urgent surgical evaluation and repair. Do not try to push the organs back in. Maintain IV access and NPO status, and monitor for signs of shock while awaiting the surgical team.

Wound evisceration is the complete separation of wound layers with internal organs protruding through the wound. It represents a dangerous, emergency level of wound dehiscence, where viscera (often bowel) come out of the incision. This is different from partial dehiscence, where only the edges separate but no organs protrude.

Immediate actions focus on protecting the exposed tissues and getting urgent care: cover the protruding organs with sterile, saline-moistened gauze to keep them moist and prevent contamination, keep the patient still and in a position that minimizes abdominal strain (often supine with the knees bent), and prepare for urgent surgical evaluation and repair. Do not try to push the organs back in. Maintain IV access and NPO status, and monitor for signs of shock while awaiting the surgical team.