The open abdomen: temporary closure with a modified negative pressure therapy technique
Helene T Hougaard1, Mark Ellebaek, Uffe T Holst
1Surgical Department, University Hospital Odense, Odense, Denmark.
International Wound Journal
|May 24, 2014
Summary
This study highlights a new narrowing technique for temporary abdominal closure (TAC) in open abdomen (OA) patients. This method achieved high fascial closure rates (92%) and low fistula rates (3.5%), suggesting improved outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Surgery
- Critical Care Medicine
- Abdominal Surgery
Background:
- Open abdomen (OA) management is critical for conditions like abdominal compartment syndrome and peritonitis.
- Temporary abdominal closure (TAC) is essential, with various methods available including negative pressure therapy (NPT).
- Evaluating novel application techniques for NPT systems is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of a new narrowing technique for applying NPT systems in OA patients.
- To determine fascial closure rates, 30-day mortality, and enteroatmospheric fistula rates.
- To evaluate the impact of this specific NPT application method on patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 115 OA patients treated with NPT systems (V.A.C. Abdominal Dressing System, ABThera Open Abdomen).
- Application of NPT systems utilized a novel 'narrowing technique'.
- Data collected on fascial closure, 30-day mortality, and fistula formation.
Main Results:
- High secondary fascial closure rate of 92% (106/115 patients).
- 30-day mortality rate was 17% (20/115 patients).
- Enteroatmospheric fistula rate was 3.5% (4/115 patients).
Conclusions:
- The narrowing technique for applying NPT in OA patients is associated with high fascial closure rates.
- This technique may contribute to favorable outcomes in managing open abdomens.
- Further comparative studies are needed to validate these findings and assess long-term results.
