third intention

Third intention, also known as delayed closure, is a surgical method for treating wounds that are identified as potentially infected. This approach involves leaving the wound open initially to minimize contamination. Once the contamination is reduced, the wound is then surgically closed.1

This method is chosen based on factors such as the presence of excessive bacterial contamination, the ability to remove all necrotic material and foreign bodies, and the adequacy of bleeding control. Unlike primary intention (clean surgical wounds closed immediately) or secondary intention (wounds left open to heal by epithelization), third intention offers a strategy for wounds that are not clean enough for immediate closure. This approach helps to decrease the risk of infection by achieving bacterial balance and promoting an optimal environment for healing.12