Subcutaneous drains in abdominal surgery: A comparative study on prevention of postoperative wound complications

Aim and Objective: The aim and objective of this study was to Assess the efficacy and safety of Subcutaneous Drains in Abdominal Surgery in Prevention of Postoperative Wound Complications.Introduction: Postoperative wound complications remain a major concern following abdominal surgeries, such as exploratory laparotomies and other abdominal wall procedures. These complications contribute significantly to patient morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. The use of subcutaneous drains has been proposed as a preventive strategy to reduce wound-related issues such as surgical site infections, seromas, hematomas, and dehiscence.Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted over a six-month period at a tertiary care center by a single pediatric surgeon. A total of 184 patients who underwent abdominal surgeries were included and divided into two groups: Group A (n=92) received subcutaneous drains, while Group B (n=92) did not receive subcutaneous drains. Data were collected on demographics, surgical details, comorbidities, wound classification, and postoperative outcomes.Result: The incidence of surgical site infections, seroma formation, and wound dehiscence wassignificantly lower in the Group A. Furthermore, mean hospital stay and readmission rates dueto wound complications were also reduced in the drain group.Conclusion: These findings suggest that the use of subcutaneous drains may play a beneficial role in minimizing postoperative wound complications, and their selective application in high-risk abdominal surgeries may improve overall outcomes.