What is the main treatment approach for evisceration following surgical wound failure?

• A. Cover the wound and refer to surgery for re-suturing
• B. Apply topical antiseptics
• C. Monitor the patient for signs of infection
• D. Attempt to manually push the bowel back into the abdomen

Answer: (A)

The main treatment approach for evisceration following surgical wound failure involves covering the wound and referring the patient for surgical intervention, which is appropriate because evisceration indicates that abdominal contents, such as bowel, have protruded through the wound. This condition requires urgent attention to protect the exposed organs and prevent complications like infection or further tissue damage.

Covering the wound with a sterile dressing helps to shield the underlying tissue and reduce the risk of environmental exposure. Referral for surgical re-suturing is necessary as evisceration typically cannot be managed successfully with conservative measures; surgical repair aims to safely return the bowel and close the defect.

While monitoring for signs of infection may be a part of the overall care plan, it does not address the immediate need to re-establish abdominal integrity. Applying topical antiseptics without appropriate surgical intervention is also insufficient, as these measures do not adequately address the underlying problem. Attempting to manually push the bowel back into the abdomen is not a safe or effective approach and risks further injury to the bowel or other structures. Therefore, prompt surgical evaluation and intervention is the best course of action for managing evisceration.