Vertical Abdominal Incisions-A Choice between Midline vs Paramedian

Abstract

Different abdominal incisions are used for exposure during different surgical procedures. Exploratory laparotomy in adults is carried out via a vertical abdominal incision in which the choices are midline and paramedian. This study was carried out to find out the better choice between these two incisions regarding their safety. This comparative clinical trial included 100 patients out of whom 50 had laparotomy done via midline incision and other 50 via paramedian (right). The methods employed for creation and closure of incisions were the standard and internationally recognized ones. The development of early complications (subcutaneous wound infection, dccl) wound infection and dehiscence) was noted during hospital stay. These patients were followed up and late complications (suture sinus and incisional hernias) were also noted. The results, which are comparable with other similar studies, showed that incidence of early complications was more in paramedian incision but midline incision is associated with more chances of development of incision al hernia.