Wound complications after major gastrointestinal operations - the surgeon as a risk factor

Background: Wound complications occur quite often after abdominal operations. Numerous studies have been performed in the last decades focusing on closure methods, incisions and suture materials. However, the most important factor, the individual surgeon, has hardly been taken into account in these studies. Methods: This study presents results from a prospective randomised study on abdominal wall closure focusing on the results of the individual surgeon. Results/Conclusions: We found no differences in the complication rate between different suture materials or between continuous and interrupted closure techniques. There are marked individual differences in complication rates between surgeons. Regular audit with feedback to individual surgeons is an important instrument for quality improvement. Copyright (C) 1999 S. Karger AG, Basel.