Global Guideline for Post-Operative Incision Care: A New Standard for Surgical Wound Management
In January 2025, the International Surgical Wound Complications Advisory Panel (ISWCAP) released a groundbreaking global guideline focused exclusively on post-operative incision care. Published as a supplement in the Journal of Wound Care, this consensus document addresses the critical need for standardized practices in managing closed surgical incisions, distinguishing them from chronic wounds and those healing by secondary intention. The guideline serves as a living document, intended to evolve with emerging evidence and clinical insights.
Key Highlights:
- Individualized Treatment Plans: The guideline emphasizes the necessity of tailoring surgical wound treatment plans to individual patient needs, considering factors such as comorbidities, surgical procedure type, and risk of complications.
- Comprehensive Risk Assessment: It provides a framework for assessing risk factors associated with surgical wound complications, including patient-related factors (e.g., diabetes, obesity), surgical factors (e.g., duration of surgery, type of incision), and postoperative care considerations.
- Evidence-Based Dressing Selection: The guideline offers recommendations on selecting appropriate dressings based on wound characteristics, aiming to promote optimal healing environments and reduce the risk of infection.
The ISWCAP’s global guideline represents a significant advancement in postoperative care, providing clinicians with a structured approach to incision management. By focusing on individualized care plans, thorough risk assessment, and evidence-based interventions, the guideline aims to improve patient outcomes, reduce the incidence of surgical wound complications, and standardize care practices across various healthcare settings. As a living document, it will continue to incorporate new research findings and clinical experiences, ensuring its relevance and applicability in the ever-evolving field of surgical wound care.
Read the full guideline on the Journal of Wound Care website.
Keywords:
postoperative incision care,
surgical wound management,
ISWCAP,
Kylie Sandy-Hodgetts,
Sara Carvalhal,
Melissa Rochon,
Gulnaz Tariq