Which term describes the partial or total separation of wound edges?

Which term describes the partial or total separation of wound edges?

• A. Evisceration
• B. Granulation
• C. Dehiscence
• D. Inflammation

Answer: (C)

The concept being tested is wound dehiscence—the partial or total separation of wound edges after they have been closed. Dehiscence occurs when the incisional sutures or wound layers fail to stay together, causing the edges to pull apart and the wound to reopen. It can happen soon after surgery or later during healing and increases the risk of infection and delayed recovery. This term distinguishes from evisceration, where internal organs protrude through the wound; dehiscence may involve the wound layers separating with or without any tissue protrusion. Granulation describes the new tissue that forms in the wound bed as part of healing, not the tearing apart of edges. Inflammation is the body's immediate response to injury and an initial phase of healing, not the separation of wound edges. Recognizing dehiscence prompts timely assessment and appropriate management to protect the wound and restore closure.

The concept being tested is wound dehiscence—the partial or total separation of wound edges after they have been closed. Dehiscence occurs when the incisional sutures or wound layers fail to stay together, causing the edges to pull apart and the wound to reopen. It can happen soon after surgery or later during healing and increases the risk of infection and delayed recovery. This term distinguishes from evisceration, where internal organs protrude through the wound; dehiscence may involve the wound layers separating with or without any tissue protrusion. Granulation describes the new tissue that forms in the wound bed as part of healing, not the tearing apart of edges. Inflammation is the body's immediate response to injury and an initial phase of healing, not the separation of wound edges. Recognizing dehiscence prompts timely assessment and appropriate management to protect the wound and restore closure.