What is the most common complication after abdominal surgery?

Infection or dehiscence of the surgical site is commonly recognized as the most prevalent complication following abdominal surgery. The surgical site is inherently exposed and subject to various factors that can lead to infection, including the patient’s immune response, presence of foreign materials (such as sutures), and the potential for contamination during the procedure.

Infections may manifest as superficial skin infections or deeper abscess formations, which can significantly impact recovery by leading to prolonged hospitalization, the need for additional interventions, and increased morbidity. Dehiscence refers to the partial or complete separation of the surgical incision, which can also occur due to factors such as increased tension on the wound, inadequate healing, or infection.

While complications like fluid retention, nausea and vomiting, and muscle weakness can occur postoperatively, they are not as frequently encountered or as consequential in terms of immediate surgical complications as infections or dehiscence. Fluid retention is often a result of surgical stress and fluid management but is typically transient. Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of anesthesia and medications but are usually manageable. Muscle weakness can occur due to inactivity during recovery but is not a direct complication of the surgical site itself. Therefore, the risk of infection or dehiscence stands