Wound management

Abstract

The majority of colorectal operations begin and end with the incision; thus wound complications are still the highest among all complications. They decrease the patient’s quality of life and increase medical and financial expenses, resulting in increased morbidity and rarely postoperative mortality. Surgeons maintain a constant effort to improve postoperative results, and comprehensive knowledge of wound management is of great importance in that process. This chapter will focus on wound management in the outpatient colorectal setting, including the basics of the wound healing process, factors associated with wound healing, wound types, principles of wound care, wound dressings, various management options, and specific colorectal conditions.