[Managing the open abdomen with vacuum-assisted closure therapy: retrospective evaluation of 22 patients]

The authors reviewed their experience in the management of "open abdomen" using the vacuum-assisted closure device (VAC), in order to assess its morbidity particularly in terms of fistula, and the outcome of abdominal wall integrity.

Between January 2003 and October 2006, 22 patients required management with an "open abdomen" technique (18 patients were managed with the VAC abdominal dressing device with application of a specific sheet and 4 other patients simply required a dressing with the polyurethane sponge). The mean age was 55 years, and M/F sex ratio was 2.67. Indications were abdominal compartment syndrome in 7 patients, initial "abdominal closure" after trauma in one patient, severe abdominal sepsis in 7 patients, and abdominal wound dehiscence where closure was impossible in 7 patients.

There were no enteric fistulae. Two infections were seen--a chronic suppuration which resolved with antibiotic therapy and a deep abscess which was drained with radiologic guidance. Of the 18 cases of "open abdomen" managed with the VAC, 15 were alive. Six (40%) underwent a delayed primary closure at a mean interval of 9 days; the others underwent secondary healing by granulation, and 10 eventually underwent split thickness skin grafting at a mean interval of 50 days. With VAC closure of the "open abdomen", the development of ventral hernia is an anticipated outcome; in four cases, patients underwent abdominal wall reconstruction at an interval of one year.

Laparostomy or "open abdomen" using the VAC dressing system should be considered an established and well-defined technique which provides temporary abdominal coverage with limited morbidity.