Final answer:
Dehiscence refers to the partial or total separation of tissue layers after a surgical closure, potentially leading to exposure of internal tissues or organs. It is a significant medical complication, distinct from evisceration, abscess, and gangrene.
Step-by-step explanation:
The separation of tissue layers after a surgical closure is known as dehiscence. This term refers to the partial or total disruption of the wound, particularly in the abdominal area, where the layers of the tissue separate and the wound reopens. After a primary union, where a wound is closed with the edges brought closely together, dehiscence can occur, leading to potential exposure of internal organs or tissues and increasing the risk of infection. It is a serious complication that often requires immediate medical attention and potentially additional surgery to repair.
Conditions like evisceration, where internal organs protrude through the wound, abscess, an accumulation of pus in tissues, organs, or a confined space, and gangrene, death of tissue due to lack of blood supply, are related but distinct from dehiscence. These terms are integral in medical studies, particularly for those specializing in surgery, wound care, and emergency medicine.