Technique of Midline Abdominal Incision Closure Among Surgical Trainees

Background: Technique of anterior abdominal wall closure (AAWC) determines wound-related surgical complications. Residents in obstetrics and gynecology and surgery departments perform most midline abdominal wall closure; data is lacking on how it is being done. This study identifies abdominal wall closure techniques used. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out from October 2015 to May 2016. Results: 71 (35 surgical, 36 ObGyn) residents completed a self-administered questionnaire. Knowledge of midline abdominal closure was acquired from medical officers (58.6%) or consultants before residency (28.6%). Absorbable suture was preferred for clean wounds by 75% of residents; 70% used size 1 suture for fascial closure. Most residents (95.7%) closed fascia in clean wound by continuous suturing. Interrupted suturing was preferred in contaminated and dirty wounds. Half of the residents in both groups would close skin in contaminated wounds, while 16% of surgery and 9.4% ObGyn will close skin in dirty wounds. Conclusion: Inconsistencies exist in anterior abdominal wall closure between groups of residents despite presence of clear guidelines. It is important to harmonize training on AAWC at the tertiary hospital. Keywords: Abdominal closure, Midline incision, Wound complication