Effectiveness of Continuous versus Interrupted Closure of Midline Wound in Emergency Laparotomies in Terms of Wound Dehiscence

Background: Midline laparotomy is widely recognized as the preferred technique for abdominal surgeries due to its simplicity and the effective exposure it provides. Despite its prevalence, the optimal method for closing the incision remains a topic of debate among surgeons, particularly when balancing the risk of wound dehiscence with the practicalities of surgical practice. The mechanical properties of suture materials and techniques, such as continuous versus interrupted suturing, directly influence wound integrity during the critical postoperative period. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and complication rates of continuous versus interrupted suturing techniques in midline laparotomies, with a focus on the incidence of wound dehiscence. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 180 patients undergoing emergency laparotomy, divided into two groups: continuous closure (Group A) and interrupted closure (Group B). The study was conducted at Lady Reading Hospital MTI, Peshawar, with ethical committee approval. Participants were informed, consented, and demographic data were recorded. Suture techniques were performed by an experienced surgeon, and patients were monitored for wound dehiscence up to the 15th postoperative day. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: Group A reported a wound dehiscence rate of 14.4%, with an effectiveness rate of 85.6%. In comparison, Group B showed a significantly lower dehiscence rate of 5.6% and an effectiveness rate of 94.4%. The age-wise distribution of effectiveness indicated no statistically significant difference between the groups across various age ranges, with P-values ranging from 0.2766 to 0.6037. Gender-wise, males and females also did not show significant differences in effectiveness between the two groups. Conclusion: Interrupted suturing for midline laparotomy closures showed a lower incidence of wound dehiscence compared to continuous suturing. However, factors such as increased surgery time and cost, along with postoperative issues like stitch sinus formation, need consideration. Further large-scale studies are recommended to evaluate the long-term outcomes and provide a more comprehensive assessment of the two techniques.