What type of closure technique is often used for a contaminated wound?

Delayed primary closure is often used for contaminated wounds because it allows time for any potential infection to be identified and addressed before completely sealing the wound. When a wound is contaminated, closing it immediately could trap bacteria inside, increasing the risk of infection and poor healing.

With delayed primary closure, the wound may be initially cleaned and left open for a period, usually between 1 to 3 days, during which the clinician can monitor for signs of infection. If the wound shows signs of healing and no significant infection develops, it can then be closed primarily. This approach balances the need for effective closure with the important consideration of managing the contamination and minimizing the risk of complications.

In contrast, primary closure entails sealing the wound immediately, which is not advisable for contaminated wounds because of the associated risks. Secondary closure refers to allowing a wound to heal by secondary intention, meaning it will granulate and heal from the bottom up over time rather than being surgically closed. Immediate closure, similarly, involves sealing the wound without any delay, which is inappropriate for cases with contamination. Thus, delayed primary closure is specifically advantageous for managing wounds where there is a risk of infection, making it the most suitable choice in this context.