Abstract

Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common complication following emergency laparotomy, particularly in cases with higher contamination levels. These patients are at an increased risk of surgical site infection and delayed wound healing. To reduce the incidence of infection, negative suction drains are often used in the subcutaneous space to evacuate infected content and collect seroma, thereby improving wound healing. This study aims to observe the role of subcutaneous drains in reducing SSI in emergency laparotomies and compare the outcomes of subcutaneous negative pressure closure (using Romo-vac Drain) versus simple skin closure for midline skin incisions. The objective is to identify the optimal method for managing laparotomy wounds between subcutaneous negative pressure closure and simple skin closure. By comparing SSI rates and duration of hospital stay, we aim to determine the most effective approach for these patients. Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted involving 50 patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Twenty-five patients had a subcutaneous negative pressure drain placed, while the remaining 25 patients underwent simple skin closure without drain placement. SSI infections were graded using the Southampton wound grading system during the post-operative period. Results: The incidence of SSI and the mean duration of hospital stay were found to be significantly lower in patients with subcutaneous negative pressure drain (12% and 7 days, respectively) compared to those without drain (88% and 10.76 days). All measured parameters showed statistically significant differences. Conclusions: The placement of subcutaneous negative pressure drain significantly reduces the occurrence of post-operative surgical site infections and duration of hospital stay following emergency exploratory laparotomy for acute abdomen cases. This approach promotes improved wound healing, faster recovery, and decreased patient morbidity. Furthermore, it helps alleviate the financial burden by reducing hospital stay duration and facilitating early discharge.

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