The reconstruction of defects of the abdominal wall with split thickness skin grafts

In our series, large, full thickness defects of the abdominal wall, resulting from debridement for fasciitis, were not primarily closed. Defects were treated open with topical applications and nutritional support. From seven to 20 days from the onset of treatment, exposed viscera were densely adhered with granulation tissue upon which skin grafts could be placed. For large abdominal wall defects which cannot be primarily closed, this technique is safe and functioning satisfactorily.