Early repair of episiotomy dehiscence associated with infection.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of our study was to examine early repair of episiotomy dehiscences in a large urban hospital setting serving a predominantly indigent population.


METHODS
Since September 1, 1989, we have proceeded with early repair in the immediate postpartum period. The medical records of 34 of 35 patients who underwent early repair were reviewed.


RESULTS
Of the 34 patients, 21 (62%) had midline and 13 (38%) had mediolateral episiotomies. Dehiscence was associated with episiotomy infection in 27 (79%) of the 34 patients: 18 (86%) in the midline group and 9 (69%) in the mediolateral group. Repair was accomplished from 3 to 13 days (mean = 6.4) after dehiscence. Successful repairs were accomplished in 32 (94%) of 34 patients. Two (6%) patients with initial third-degree episiotomies had a subsequent breakdown of their repairs and were allowed to heal by secondary intention.


CONCLUSIONS
Although most dehiscences in our population were associated with infection, early repair in this population is associated with a satisfactory outcome in the vast majority.
Ramin
S M
SM
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235-9032.
Ramus
R M
RM
Little
B B
BB
Gilstrap
L C
LC
D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004841:Episiotomy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D012086:Reoperation; D013529:Surgical Wound Dehiscence / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D013997:Time Factors; D017211:Treatment Failure
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents