Name a common complication that can occur after abdominal surgery.

Infection is a common complication that can occur after abdominal surgery due to several factors. First, surgical procedures often involve incisions through the skin and deeper tissues, which can serve as entry points for bacteria and other pathogens. The presence of foreign materials, such as sutures and mesh, can also increase the risk of infection. Furthermore, the patient's overall health and immune status play significant roles; factors such as obesity, diabetes, and smoking can impair healing and increase susceptibility to infections.

Post-operative infections can manifest in various forms, including surgical site infections (SSI), abscesses, and more systemic infections such as sepsis. Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever, increased pain at the incision site, or pus, is crucial in the post-operative period to ensure timely intervention and management.

Other complications, like hemorrhage, while also significant, are typically more immediate and may be addressed during the surgery itself. Meanwhile, heart attacks and strokes, while serious and possible post-operative concerns, are less directly related to the surgical procedure itself compared to the risk of infection. Therefore, infection is a particularly pertinent concern after abdominal surgery due to the nature of the procedure and the potential for bacteria to enter the body through surgical sites.