1Postgraduate Student, Department of General Surgery, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM Institute of Science and Technology University, Kattankulathur, 603203
2Postgraduate Student, Department of General Surgery, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM Institute of Science and Technology University, Kattankulathur, 603203
3Postgraduate Student, Department of General Surgery, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM Institute of Science and Technology University, Kattankulathur, 603203
4Assistant Professor, Department of General Surgery, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM Institute of Science and Technology University, Kattankulathur, 603203
5Professor, Department of General Surgery, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM Institute of Science and Technology University, Kattankulathur, 603203
Background: Optimal rectus sheath closure technique in emergency exploratory laparotomy remains controversial. Continuous suturing offers procedural efficiency, whereas interrupted suturing may provide enhanced wound security, particularly in contaminated fields.
Aim: To compare continuous and interrupted suturing techniques for rectus sheath closure in exploratory laparotomy with respect to wound complications and surgical outcomes.
Methods: This prospective observational study included 68 adult patients undergoing emergency exploratory laparotomy through midline incision. Patients were divided into interrupted (n=34) and continuous (n=34) closure groups based on surgeon preference. Primary outcome was postoperative wound dehiscence. Secondary outcomes included closure time, suture length used, surgical site infection (SSI), and duration of hospital stay. Statistical analysis was performed using independent t-test and chi-square test, with p<0.05 considered significant.
Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Continuous suturing significantly reduced closure time (12.3 ± 1.8 vs 18.6 ± 2.4 minutes, p<0.001) and suture usage (88 ± 6 vs 102 ± 8 cm, p<0.001). However, wound dehiscence was significantly lower in the interrupted group (5.9% vs 17.6%, p=0.04). SSI rates were comparable (14.7% vs 20.6%, p=0.52). Mean hospital stay was shorter in the interrupted group (8.4 ± 1.9 vs 10.1 ± 2.6 days, p=0.01). Wound infection was strongly associated with dehiscence (p=0.002).
Conclusion: Interrupted closure provided superior fascial integrity and reduced hospital stay, while continuous closure improved operative efficiency. Technique selection should be individualized in emergency laparotomy settings.
Keywords: Exploratory laparotomy, Rectus sheath closure, Continuous suturing, Interrupted suturing, Wound dehiscence.
How to cite this article: Akash S, Karthika SP, Reddy MM, Dhas P, Raman L. A Prospective Observational Study Of Comparison Between Continuous And Interrupted Suturing For Rectus Sheath Closure In Exploratory Laparotomy. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(1s): 248-256. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.1s.31
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None