Introduction: Obesity is a recognised risk factor for complications in abdominal surgery wounds. The “dead space” formed by inadequately vascularised subcutaneous adipose tissue permits the accumulation of serous fluid and blood. Bacteria proliferate in this environment, heightening the risk of Surgical Site Infections (SSI) and wound dehiscence. Aim: To determine the efficacy of prophylactic subcutaneous closed-tube drainage in reducing local wound complications following elective abdominal sur