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Gastroenterology  (Expert Forum)
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abdominal incision burst and bowels fell out
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.

abdominal incision burst and bowels fell out

by ConcernedGrandaughter, May 09, 2002 12:00AM
My grandfather had an incision in his abdomen for partial removal of his colon. It went from his breastbone to his pelvis down the center of his abdomen. It was mostly stapled together and open for last six inches to allow healing from the inside. He was discharged from the hospital and one day at rehab/nursing home for recovery when his wound burst open, even the stapled part and his intestines came out. They then rushed him back to surgery where his incision was closed differently with "stay sutures" on the sides which tie the muscles together . Now he has an open wound more than 12 inches long that is to heal from the inside out. Has anyone evr heard of this happening ? What is it called ? Grampy explains it as he "exploded". I want to research this but cant find any information.
Member Comments

by thenurseone, May 18, 2002 12:00AM
the term for what happened to you grandfather's surgical wound is Dehiscence.  It does occur sometimes for various reasons.

by ConcernedGrandaughter, May 21, 2002 12:00AM
I found out that it was actually an evisceration.
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