Management of the patient with an open abdomen: techniques in temporary and definitive closure

A descriptive analysis of skin-only closure and Bogota bag techniques for achieving complete fascial closure in damage control abdominal surgery

BACKGROUND

Temporary abdominal closure (TAC) techniques are essential in managing open abdomen cases, particularly in damage control surgery. Skin-only closure (SC) and Bogota bag closure (BBC) are commonly used methods for TAC, but their comparative effectiveness in achieving primary fascial closure (PFC) remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the rates of PFC between patients undergoing SC and BBC techniques for TAC in peritonitis or abdominal trauma cases at a tertiary care hospital.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Surgical A Unit of Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, from January 2022 to July 2023. Approval was obtained from the institutional review board, and patient consent was secured for data use. Patients undergoing temporary abdominal closure using either skin-only or Bogota bag techniques were included. Exclusions comprised patients younger than 15 or older than 75 years, those with multiple abdominal wall incisions, and those with prior abdominal surgeries. Data analysis utilized SPSS version 25. The study aimed to assess outcomes following damage control surgery, focusing on primary fascial closure rates and associated factors. Closure techniques (skin-only and Bogota bag) were chosen based on institutional protocols and clinical context. Indications for damage control surgery (DCS) included traumatic and non-traumatic emergencies. Intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) was measured using standardized methods. Patients were divided into SC and BBC groups for comparison. Criteria for reoperation and primary fascial closure were established, with timing and technique determined based on clinical assessment and multidisciplinary team collaboration. The decision to leave patients open during the index operation followed damage control surgery principles.

RESULTS

A total of 193 patients were included in this study, with 59.0% undergoing skin-only closure (SC) and 41.0% receiving Bogota bag closure (BBC). Patients exhibited similar demographic characteristics across cohorts, with a majority being male (73.1%) and experiencing acute abdomen of non-traumatic origin (58.0%). Among the reasons for leaving the abdomen open, severe intra-abdominal sepsis affected 51.3% of patients, while 42.0% experienced hemodynamic instability. Patients who received SC had significantly higher rates of primary fascial closure (PFC) compared to BBC (85.1% vs. 65.8%, p = 0.04), with lower rates of fascial dehiscence (1.7% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.052) and wound infections (p = 0.010). Multivariate regression analysis showed SC was associated with a higher likelihood of achieving PFC compared to BBC (adjusted OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3-3.8, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In patients with peritonitis or abdominal trauma, SC demonstrated higher rates of PFC compared to BBC for TAC in our study population. However, further studies are warranted to validate these results and explore the long-term outcomes associated with different TAC techniques.

Management of the patient with the open abdomen

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this study was to outline the management of the patient with the open abdomen.

RECENT FINDINGS

An open abdomen approach is used after damage control laparotomy, to decrease risk for postsurgery intra-abdominal hypertension, if reoperation is likely and after primary abdominal decompression.Temporary abdominal wall closure without negative pressure is associated with higher rates of intra-abdominal infection and evisceration. Negative pressure systems improve fascial closure rates but increase fistula formation. Definitive abdominal wall closure should be considered once oedema has subsided and the patient has stabilized. Delayed abdominal closure after trauma (>24-48 h) is associated with less achievement of fascial closure and more complications. Protective lung ventilation should be employed early, particularly if respiratory compromise is evident. Conservative fluid management and less sedation may decrease delirium and increase definitive abdominal closure rates. Extubation may be performed before definitive abdominal closure in selected patients. Antibiotic therapy should be brief, targeted and guideline concordant. Survival depends on the underlying disease, the closure method and the course of hospitalization.

SUMMARY

Changes in the treatment of patients with the open abdomen include negative temporary closure, conservative fluid management, early protective lung ventilation, decreased sedation and extubation before abdominal closure in selected patients.

Innovative approach to open abdomen: converting an enteroatmospheric fistula into an easily manageable stoma

A 52-year-old super morbidly obese patient underwent elective laparoscopic conversion of a failed silastic ring vertical gastroplasty to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Following surgery, she developed an anastomotic leak which required emergent laparotomy. The patient then suffered from a complex postoperative course during which she developed an intestinal fistula which freely drained into the wound and gradually led to its complete dehiscence. Her course was further complicated by the surfacing of an enteroatmospheric fistula. This devastating complication was managed by employing the TopClosure Tension Relief system. Using the inverse maturation technique, further described in this report, we were able to progressively approximate and invert the edges of the skin around the enteroatmospheric fistula, thereby facilitating its conversion to an easily manageable stoma. Using this technique, we were able to achieve delayed primary wound closure of a grade 4 open abdomen complicated by an enteroatmospheric fistula in just under 5 weeks' time.

Impact of initial temporary abdominal closure in damage control surgery: a retrospective analysis

Background

Damage control surgery has revolutionized trauma surgery. Use of damage control surgery allows for resuscitation and reversal of coagulopathy at the risk of loss of abdominal domain and intra-abdominal complications. Temporary abdominal closure is possible with multiple techniques, the choice of which may affect ability to achieve primary fascial closure and further complication.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all trauma patients requiring damage control laparotomy upon admission to an ACS-verified level one trauma center from 2011 to 2016 was performed. Demographic and clinical data including ability and time to attain primary fascial closure, as well as complication rates, were recorded. The primary outcome measure was ability to achieve primary fascial closure during initial hospitalization.

Results

Two hundred and thirty-nine patients met criteria for inclusion. Primary skin closure (57.7%), ABThera™ VAC system (ABT) (15.1%), Bogota bag (BB) (25.1%), or a modified Barker's vacuum-packing (BVP) (2.1%) were used in the initial laparotomy. Patients receiving skin-only closure had significantly higher rates of primary fascial closure and lower hospital mortality, but also significantly lower mean lactate, base deficit, and requirement for massive transfusion. Between ABT or BB, use of ABT was associated with increased rates of fascial closure. Multivariate regression revealed primary skin closure to be significantly associated with primary fascial closure while BB was associated with failure to achieve fascial closure.

Conclusions

Primary skin closure is a viable option in the initial management of the open abdomen, although these patients demonstrated less injury burden in our study. Use of vacuum-assisted dressings continues to be the preferred method for temporary abdominal closure in damage control surgery for trauma.

The open abdomen: analysis of risk factors for mortality and delayed fascial closure in 101 patients

Introduction

The core concepts of damage control and open abdomen in trauma surgery have been expanding for emergent general surgery. Temporary closures allow ease of access to the abdominal cavity for source control.The aim of the current study was to assess the outcomes of patients who underwent open abdomen management for acute abdominal conditions and evaluate risk factors for worse outcomes and inability of fascial closure during the initial hospitalization.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 101 patients submitted to laparostomy in a single institution from January 2009 to March 2017. The evaluated outcomes were mortality, local morbidity, and rate of primary fascial closure.

Results

The most common indications for open abdomen were bowel perforation, bowel ischemia, and necrotizing pancreatitis. Global in-hospital mortality rate was 62.4%. For the 37 patients discharged from the hospital, a definitive abdominal closure was attained in 28.Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that people older than 60 years of age and with Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) scores over 18.5 had higher in-hospital mortality rates. Definitive fascial closure was statistically associated with a lower number of re-interventions and ICU stay.

Conclusions

Open abdomen management may be appropriate in these critically ill patients; however, it continues to be associated with significantly high mortality, especially in elder patients and with higher APACHE II scores. Recognition of risk factors for fascia closure failure should promote the investigation for a tailored surgical approach in these patients.

In vitro pressure manifolding distribution evaluation of ABThera(™) Active Abdominal Therapy System, V.A.C.(®) Abdominal Dressing System, and Barker's vacuum packing technique conducted under dynamic conditions

OBJECTIVES

Temporary abdominal closure methods allow for management of open abdomens where immediate primary closure is not possible and/or where repeat abdominal entries are necessary. We assessed pressure mapping and fluid extraction efficiency of three open abdomen dressing systems: ABThera(™) Active Abdominal Therapy System, V.A.C.(®) Abdominal Dressing System, and Barker's vacuum packing technique.

METHODS

An in vitro test model was designed to simulate physical conditions present in an open abdomen. The model consisted of a rigid rest platform with elevated central region and a flexible outer layer with centrally located incision. Constant -125 mmHg negative pressure was applied according to the type of system, under simulated dynamic conditions, using albumin-based solution with a viscosity of 14 cP. Data were collected by pressure sensors located circumferentially into three concentric zones: Zone 1 (closest to negative pressure source), Zone 2 (immediately outside of manifolding material edge), and Zone 3 (area most distal from negative pressure source). Each value was the result of approximately 100 pressure readings/zone/experiment with a total of three experiments for each system.

RESULTS

Pressure distribution of ABThera Therapy was significantly (p < 0.05) superior to Barker's vacuum packing technique in all three evaluated zones. Similarly, V.A.C. Abdominal Dressing System pressure distribution was significantly (p < 0.05) improved compared to Barker's vacuum packing technique in all zones. There were no pressure distribution differences in Zone 1 between ABThera Therapy and V.A.C. Abdominal Dressing System; however, in Zones 2 and 3, ABThera Therapy was significantly (p < 0.05) superior to V.A.C. Abdominal Dressing System.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that all approaches to negative pressure therapy for open abdomen treatment are not equal. Additional research should be conducted to elucidate clinical implications of data demonstrated here.

Techniques for Abdominal Wall Closure after Damage Control Laparotomy: From Temporary Abdominal Closure to Early/Delayed Fascial Closure-A Review

Open abdomen (OA) has been an effective treatment for abdominal catastrophes in traumatic and general surgery. However, management of patients with OA remains a formidable task for surgeons. The central goal of OA is closure of fascial defect as early as is clinically feasible without precipitating abdominal compartment syndrome. Historically, techniques such as packing, mesh, and vacuum-assisted closure have been developed to assist temporary abdominal closure, and techniques such as components separation, mesh-mediated traction, bridging fascial defect with permanent synthetic mesh, or biologic mesh have also been attempted to achieve early primary fascial closure, either alone or in combined use. The objective of this review is to present the challenges of these techniques for OA with a goal of early primary fascial closure, when the patient's physiological condition allows.

Effect of Negative Pressure Therapy on the Inflammatory Response of the Intestinal Microenvironment in a Porcine Septic Model

In a swine model of ischemia/reperfusion injury coupled with sepsis, we have previously shown attenuation of secondary organ injury and decreased mortality with negative pressure therapy (NPT). We hypothesized that NPT modulates the intestinal microenvironment by mediating the innate immune system. Sepsis was induced in 12 anesthetized female pigs. Group 1 (n = 6) was decompressed at 12 hrs after injury (T₁₂) and treated with standard of care (SOC), and group 2 (n = 6) with NPT for up to T₄₈. Immunoparalysis was evident as lymphocytopenia at T₂₄ in both groups; however, survival was improved in the NPT group versus SOC (Odds ratio = 4.0). The SOC group showed significant reduction in lymphocyte numbers compared to NPT group by T₄₈ (p < 0.05). The capacity of peritoneal fluid to stimulate a robust reactive oxygen species response in vitro was greater for the NPT group, peaking at T₂₄ for both M1 (p = 0.0197) and M2 macrophages (p = 0.085). Plasma elicited little if any effect which was confirmed by microarray analysis. In this septic swine model NPT appeared to modulate the intestinal microenvironment, facilitating an early robust, yet transient, host defense mediated by M1 and M2 macrophages. NPT may help overcome immunoparalysis that occurs during inflammatory response to septic injury.

Abdominal trauma in durban, South Africa: factors influencing outcome

Abdominal injury as a result of both blunt and penetrating trauma has an appreciable mortality rate from hemorrhage and sepsis. In this article, we present our experience with the management of abdominal trauma in Durban and investigate factors that influence outcome. We performed a prospective study of patients with abdominal trauma in one surgical ward at King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban over a period of 7 years, from 1998 through 2004. Demographic details, cause of injury, delay before surgery, clinical presentation, findings at surgery, management and outcome were documented. There were 488 patients with abdominal trauma with a mean age of 29.2 ± 10.7 years. There were 440 penetrating injuries (240 firearm wounds; 200 stab wounds) and 48 blunt injuries. The mean delay before surgery was 11.7 ± 16.4 hours, and 55 patients (11%) presented in shock. Four hundred and forty patients underwent laparotomy, and 48 were managed nonoperatively. The Injury Severity Score was 11.1 ± 6.7, and the New Injury Severity Score was 17.1 ± 11.1. One hundred and thirty-seven patients (28%) were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), with a mean ICU stay of 3.6 ± 5.5 days. One hundred and thirty-two patients developed complications (28%), and 52 (11%) died. Shock, acidosis, increased transfusion requirements, number of organs injured, and injury severity were all associated with higher mortality. Delay before surgery had no influence on outcome. Hospital stay was 9.2 ± 10.8 days. The majority of abdominal injuries in our environment are due to firearms. Physiological instability, mechanism of injury, severity of injury, and the number of organs injured influence outcome.

Abdominal damage control surgery and reconstruction: world society of emergency surgery position paper

Damage control laparotomy was first described by Dr. Harlan Stone in 1983 when he suggested that patients with severe trauma should have their primary procedures abbreviated when coagulopathy was encountered. He recommended temporizing patients with abdominal packing and temporary closure to allow restoration of normal physiology prior to returning to the operating room for definitive repair. The term damage control in the trauma setting was coined by Rotondo et al., in 1993. Studies in subsequent years have validated this technique by demonstrating decreased mortality and immediate post-operative complications. The indications for damage control laparotomy have evolved to encompass abdominal compartment syndrome, abdominal sepsis, vascular and acute care surgery cases. The perioperative critical care provided to these patients, including sedation, paralysis, nutrition, and fluid management strategies may improve closure rates and recovery. In the rare cases of inability to primarily close the abdomen, there are a number of reconstructive strategies that may be used in the acute and chronic phases of abdominal closure.

Comparison between the intraoperative use of polyvinyl chloride cover and surgical compresses for preventing postoperative adhesions

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Surgical compresses used for retraction during major abdominal and pelvic procedures lead to postoperative adhesion formation resulting from damage to the visceral peritoneum. This study investigates whether polyvinyl chloride (PVC) covers cause less postsurgical adhesion and inflammation than surgical compresses in an animal model.

METHODS

Female Wistar albino rats (n = 160) were divided into three groups (compress, PVC cover and control), which were then divided into 16 subgroups (n = 10/group). All animals underwent midline laparotomy and cecal abrasion. A metal retractor, which applies a constant force, was then placed on the small intestine for 2 h. In the control group, no material was placed under the retractor, whereas a surgical compress or PVC cover was placed in the experimental animals. Full-thickness small intestinal biopsies were obtained and examined by light and electron microscopy. The following parameters were evaluated: congestion, mesothelial proliferation, leukocyte migration and collagenization. Adhesions were scored according to the Nair, Knightly and Mazuji scoring systems.

RESULTS

All inflammation scores were significantly higher in the compress group than in the other two groups. However, no significant difference was observed between the PVC cover and control groups. Adhesions were more frequent in the compress group than in the other two groups, regardless of the scoring system used.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical compresses used in abdominal and pelvic surgeries cause inflammation and adhesion. Contrary to surgical compresses, PVC covers do not cause inflammation and adhesion, which may considerably reduce adhesion-related complications in abdominopelvic surgeries.

Challenges in the Management of the Open Abdomen

First described more than 60 years ago, the open abdomen has now become a relatively common entity in surgical ICUs. Although the indications for an open abdomen have evolved since the original description of the damage control laparotomy, the goal remains to provide an unstable or critically ill patient time to correct their physiologic derangements. Temporary abdominal closure is thus used as a bridge to definitive repair and closure. Unfortunately, the open abdomen is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and recent studies have suggested an overuse of the technique. Once the decision is made to proceed with an open abdomen, multiple options exist for temporary abdominal closure. The hope is to obtain definitive closure shortly thereafter in an attempt to reduce potential complications including intra-abdominal infection or enteroatmospheric fistula. Options for temporary closure range from the Bogotá bag to vacuum-assisted techniques; a combined technique of sequential fascial closure with vacuum assistance has recently been shown to result in 100% fascial approximation. In situations where fascial closure is unattainable, temporary coverage with a skin graft may be employed, followed by late abdominal closure via complex abdominal herniorrhaphy. Even using advanced methods such as component separation or a “pork sandwich” technique, the complication and recurrence rates remain high. A careful understanding of the indications, optimal management, and potential complications of the open abdomen is necessary to limit its overuse and ultimately reduce some of the challenges associated with it.

Total management of the open abdomen

The management of complex abdominal problems with the 'open abdomen' (OA) technique has become a routine procedure in surgery. The number of cases treated with an OA has increased dramatically because of the popularisation of damage control for life-threatening conditions, recognition and treatment of intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome and new evidence regarding the management of severe intra-abdominal sepsis. Although OA has saved numerous lives and has addressed many problems related to the primary pathology, this technique is also associated with serious complications. New knowledge about the pathophysiology of the OA and the development of new technologies for temporary abdominal wall closure (e.g. ABThera™ Open Abdomen Negative Pressure Therapy; KCI USA Inc., San Antonio, TX) has helped improve the management and outcomes of these patients. This review will merge expert physician opinion with scientific evidence regarding the total management of the OA.

Surgical strategies for management of the open abdomen

Since the mid-1990s the surgical community has seen a surge in the prevalence of open abdomens (OAs) reported in the surgical literature and in clinical practice. The OA has proven to be effective in decreasing mortality and immediate postoperative complications; however, it may come at the cost of delayed morbidity and the need for further surgical procedures. Indications for leaving the abdomen open have broadened to include damage control surgery, abdominal compartment syndrome, and abdominal sepsis. The surgical options for management of the OA are now more diverse and sophisticated, but there is a lack of prospective randomized controlled trials demonstrating the superiority of any particular method. Additionally, critical care strategies for optimization of the patient with an OA are still being developed. Review of the literature suggests a bimodal distribution of primary closure rates, with early closure dependent on postoperative intensive care management and delayed closure more affected by the choice of the temporary abdominal closure technique. Invariably, a small fraction of patients requiring OA management fail to have primary fascial closure and require some form of biologic fascial bridge with delayed ventral hernia repair in the future.

Correlation between procalcitonin and intra-abdominal pressure and their role in prediction of the severity of acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Early assessment of disease severity and vigilant patient monitoring are key factors for adequate treatment of acute pancreatitis (AP). The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of procalcitonin (PCT) serum concentrations and intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) as prognostic markers in early stages of AP.

METHODS

This prospective observational study included 51 patients, of which 29 had severe AP (SAP). Patients were evaluated with the Acute Physiology And Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) score, C-reactive protein (CRP) and PCT serum concentrations and IAP at 24 h from admission. PCT was measured three times in the 1st week of disease and three times afterward, while IAP was measured daily. PCT and IAP values correlated with each other, and also compared with APACHE II score and CRP values.

RESULTS

PCT, IAP, CRP values and APACHE II score at 24 h after hospital admission were significantly elevated in patients with SAP. There was significant correlation between PCT and IAP values measured at 24 h of admission, and between maximal PCT and IAP values. Sensitivity/specificity for predicting AP severity at 24 h after admission was 89%/69% for APACHE II score, 75%/86% for CRP, 86%/63% for PCT and 75%/77% for IAP.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased IAP was accompanied by increased PCT serum concentration in patients with AP. PCT and IAP can both be used as early markers of AP severity.

Strategies for modulating the inflammatory response after decompression from abdominal compartment syndrome

BACKGROUND

Management of the open abdomen is an increasingly common part of surgical practice. The purpose of this review is to examine the scientific background for the use of temporary abdominal closure (TAC) in the open abdomen as a way to modulate the local and systemic inflammatory response, with an emphasis on decompression after abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS).

METHODS

A review of the relevant English language literature was conducted. Priority was placed on articles published within the last 5 years.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION

Recent data from our group and others have begun to lay the foundation for the concept of TAC as a method to modulate the local and/or systemic inflammatory response in patients with an open abdomen resulting from ACS.

Negative pressure therapy: a viable option for general surgical management of the open abdomen

BACKGROUND

Management of the open abdomen (OA) is challenging for surgeons and requires experienced medical teamwork. The need for improvements in temporary abdominal closure methods has led to the development of a negative-pressure therapy (NPT; ABThera OA NPT, KCI USA, Inc, San Antonio, TX).

METHOD

The authors present a 19-patient case series documenting their use of NPT for OA management in nontraumatic surgery. All received NPT until the fascia was considered ready for closure.

RESULTS

Of 19 patients, 17 (89.5%) achieved fascial closure with a Kaplan-Meier (KM) median time to closure of 6 days. Mean hospital and intensive care unit stays were 32.1 and 26.6 days, respectively. During their hospitalization, 5 patients (26.3%) died, with a KM median time to mortality of 53 days.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate effective use of NPT for managing the OA in critically ill patients, and this has led the authors to use it in their general surgery practice.

The effect of different temporary abdominal closure materials on the growth of granulation tissue after the open abdomen

BACKGROUND

Temporary abdominal closure (TAC) is often performed after an open abdomen to prevent postoperative complications. Reducing the time of TAC and performing a skin grafting as early as possible would improve the outcome of open abdomen. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of different TAC materials and topically applied exogenous growth factors on the growth of granulation tissue covered on the wound areas after the open abdomen.

METHODS

Healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups of six animals each. Twenty-four hours after induction of peritonitis and intra-abdominal hypertension by intraperitoneal injection of nitrogen, relaparotomies were done. The abdomen was then closed with polyethylene sheet or polypropylene mesh plus growth factor (or not). On the seventh day after TAC surgery, TAC materials were removed, and granulation tissue on the wound surface was assessed microscopically. Microvascular densities, thickness of granulation tissue, and fibroblast counts were also measured.

RESULTS

Microvascular densities, thickness of granulation tissue, and fibroblast counts were the highest for polypropylene mesh closure plus recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor (rbFGF) followed by polypropylene mesh plus recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) and polypropylene mesh alone, with polyethylene sheet alone being the least.

CONCLUSIONS

Polypropylene mesh could promote the growth of granulation tissue after the open abdomen. Topical application of rhGH or rbFGF further hastens the process, with the effect of rbFGF being the greatest.

New technique for dynamic closure of the abdominal wall

Advances in care of trauma patients and severe abdominal infections are responsible for an increasing number of laparostomies. The management of this entity is complex and several techniques have been described for its treatment. Recently the concept of dynamic closure of the abdominal wall was introduced in the literature with high success rates. The objective of this report is to serve as a foreword for a new approach for the treatment of laparostomy developed at the University Hospital of the University of São Paulo. This is a simple and low cost method, easily performed by a general surgeon. The procedure was also used prophylactically as reinforcement in tight abdominal closures. It is described in detail as well as the results in the first patients. Although promising, refinements and further studies are needed to validate the technique.

Development of a novel method of progressive temporary abdominal closure

BACKGROUND

This paper describes our experience with a novel method of temporary abdominal closure that permits frequent reassessment of the abdominal contents and progressive reapproximation of the fascial edges without compromising definitive fascial closure outcomes.

METHODS

We developed a novel method of temporary abdominal closure, which we have named the frequent assessment temporary abdominal closure (FASTAC). The records of patients who underwent planned relaparotomy during 5 years were reviewed. The data collected included patient demographics, indication for operation, number of operations, duration of temporary abdominal closure placement, hospital duration of stay, method of definitive abdominal closure, and subsequent ventral hernia repair.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-three patients underwent 308 temporary abdominal closure placements, including 16 patients who had a FASTAC placed for open abdomen management. FASTAC remained in place for a significantly greater time with more frequent reassessment. Fascial closure techniques were not different in FASTAC patients. FASTAC patients had a significantly greater duration of stay, which suggests selective placement in a more complicated patient population. The materials for frequent assessment temporary abdominal closure cost only $38 compared with $350 for a large piece of Silastic.

CONCLUSION

FASTAC is a novel, cost-effective method of temporary abdominal closure that allows for frequent bedside intra-abdominal surveillance, maintains abdominal domain, and does not compromise abdominal closure outcomes in the management of the open abdomen.

Recognition and management of major vessel injury during laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is one of the most commonly performed procedures in the United States. Injury to a major retroperitoneal vessel occurs in 0.3% to 1.0% of procedures, most commonly during laparoscopic entry while placing the Veress needle or primary trocar. Fatal outcome can be related to massive gas embolism or exsanguination. Recommended treatment for gas embolism can range from supportive measures to external chest compression and insertion of a central line to withdraw gas from the right side of the heart. Recommended treatment of major vessel injury with massive hemorrhage consists of rapid laparotomy and control of hemorrhage using direct pressure until a surgeon experienced in vascular procedures arrives. When a major vessel injury occurs in a surgical facility distant from a medical center and without an available surgeon with vascular experience, based on the trauma literature, we recommend temporary control of blood loss using abdominal packing and closure (i.e., "damage control surgery") and judicious resuscitation (i.e., "damage control resuscitation") before transportation to a medical center.

Surgical hemorrhage, damage control, and the abdominal compartment syndrome

The morbidity and mortality associated with surgical hemorrhage are considerable, particularly when relaparotomy is necessary. This complication can usually be avoided with comprehensive preoperative patient evaluation and meticulous surgical technique. The damage control sequence is a useful surgical strategy when severe intraoperative coagulopathy or hemodynamic instability is present. Abdominal compartment syndrome is a potentially lethal phenomenon that can occur following laparotomy or large-volume fluid resuscitation, or both. Early recognition and intervention are critical to survival of the patient when this syndrome occurs.

Vacuum-assisted closure in severe abdominal sepsis with or without retention sutured sequential fascial closure: a clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Multiple techniques have been introduced to obtain fascial closure for the open abdomen to minimize morbidity and cost of care. We hypothesized that a modification of the vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) technique that provides constant fascial tension and prevents abdominis rectis retraction would facilitate primary fascial closure and reduce morbidity.

METHODS

In all, 53 patients with severe abdominal sepsis were allocated randomly into 2 groups, and 30 patients were analyzed. In the VAC group, we included patients managed only with the VAC device, whereas the retentions sutured sequential fascial closure (RSSFC) group included patients to whom RSSFC was performed.

RESULTS

The abdomen was left open for 12 days (P = .0001) with 4.4 ± 1.35 changes per patient for the VAC group (P = .001) and 8 days with 2.87 ± 0.74 dressing changes per patient for the RSSFC group, respectively. Abdominal closure was possible in only 6 patients in the VAC group, whereas for the RSSFC group, abdominal closure was achieved in 14 patients (P = .005). Planned hernia was exclusively decided in patients in the VAC group (P = .001). The hospital stay was 17.53 ± 4.59 days for the VAC group and 11.93 ± 2.05 days for the RSSFC group (P = .0001). The median initial intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) was 12 mm Hg for the VAC group and 16 mm Hg for the RSSFC group (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated the superiority of RSSFC compared with the single use of the VAC device. In our opinion, sequential fascial closure can immediately begin when abdominal sepsis is controlled.

Seatbelt syndrome associated with an isolated rectal injury: case report

Seatbelt syndrome is defined as a seatbelt sign associated with a lumbar spine fracture and a bowel perforation. An isolated rectal perforation due to seatbelt syndrome is extremely rare. There is only one case reported in the Danish literature and non in the English literature. A 48-year old front seat restrained passenger was involved in a head-on collision. He had lower abdominal pain and back pain. Seatbelt mark was seen across the lower abdomen. Initial trauma CT scan was normal except for a burst fracture of L5 vertebra which was operated on by internal fixation on the same day. The patient continued to have abdominal pain. A repeated abdominal CT scan on the third day has shown free intraperitoneal air. Laparotomy has revealed a perforation of the proximal part of the rectum below the recto sigmoid junction. Hartmann's procedure was performed. The abdomen was left open. Gradual closure of the abdominal fascia over a period of two weeks was performed. Postoperatively, the patient had temporary urinary retention due to quada equina injury which resolved 10 months after surgery. The presence of a seatbelt sign and a lumbar fracture should raise the possibility of a bowel injury.

Dynamic retention suture closure: modified Bogotá bag approach

BACKGROUND

Management of patients with abdominal compartment syndrome requires abdominal decompression and the use of the open abdomen technique. Various options exist for the management of the open abdomen including expensive, commercially available devices to aid in the gradual closure of the abdominal wall. A previously described temporary closure technique using dynamic retention sutures was modified and used in eleven trauma injured patients at the Puerto Rico Trauma Center.

METHODS

Retrospective case series of 11 trauma patients, seven blunt and four penetrating, treated at the Puerto Rico Trauma Center with the modified Bogotá bag (MBB) approach from October 2005 to November 2006.

RESULTS

The MBB approach was applied in 11 out of 43 trauma patients (26%) who had undergone a Bogotá bag closure during an initial damage control surgery. Patients' average age was 27.5 (2-65) y old, including 8 males and 3 females, with an injury severity score (ISS) of 23.3 (9-38). The MBB placement allowed serial approximation in the Trauma ICU with subsequent delayed primary abdominal closure. The procedure was used for an average of 7.3 (4-12) d. Abdominal closure was achieved in 10 out of 11 patients (91%).

CONCLUSIONS

The MBB technique has preliminarily proven to be effective, allowing delayed primary closure in 91% of the cases. The MBB approach represents an inexpensive and useful alternative in the management of the open abdomen.

[Open vacuum-pack abdomen. An ideal technique for deferred temporary abdominal closure in complications after cytoreduction surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy with hyperthermia due to peritoneal cancer]

INTRODUCTION

The use of a new therapeutic alternative involving cytoreductive surgery with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy in the treatment of patients suffering from peritoneal carcinomatosis represents a new challenge for the multidisciplinary teams caring for these patients. Their post-operative progress and care needs, apart from differing from those of conventional patients, have not yet been completely defined or protocolised. In this presentation we explain the special characteristics of these patients compared to the usual surgical patients, the possible physiopathological mechanisms which may give rise to the different types of complications, the circumstances when a temporary abdominal closure is necessary, the ideal conditions required for an optimal technique, and finally our experience with the open vacuum abdomen technique in the treatment of the complications that appear in patients treated by this new triple combined therapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Based on our personal experience in the treatment of 110 cytoreductions carried out between February 1997 and February 2007 on 71 patients suffering from peritoneal carcinomatosis of various origins. Of the 71 patients, 50 (70%) suffered some kind of complication during their postoperative evolution, 28 of them requiring re-operation for a Grade III-IV postoperative complication. The abdominal situation made a temporary closure desirable in 17 patients, having applied an open vacuum abdomen technique on every occasion. We study this group of patients according their original type of tumour and stage of the disease at the cytoreductive procedure, peritonectomies and visceral resections required, type of postoperative complications, treatment applied and evolution.

RESULTS

A total of 52 open vacuum abdomen procedures were required (median, 2.8 per patient; range, 1-10) before the abdominal complication could be completely kept under control in these 17 patients. Only 2 postoperative intestinal fistulas were directly related to this technique, and a primary closure of the whole abdominal wall was possible in 11 of these patients (66%). All but one of them left the hospital alive and well.

CONCLUSIONS

As a consequence of this experience, in our opinion, the open vacuum abdomen is the ideal election technique to be employed in any temporary closure of the abdominal cavity for whatever reason it is required, including the worst possible surgical scenario, as we have demonstrated in the treatment of surgical complications after cytoreductive procedures and intraperitoneal chemohyperthermia.

Effect of immediate enteral feeding on trauma patients with an open abdomen: protection from nosocomial infections

BACKGROUND

Damage-control laparotomy has become increasingly common after operative resuscitation of severe hemorrhagic shock after injury. Despite increased use, uncertainty exists about the safety and timing of enteral nutrition. The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and effect of immediate enteral nutrition.

STUDY DESIGN

Data were obtained from a multicenter prospective cohort study evaluating clinical outcomes in adults with hemorrhagic shock after injury and were limited to patients with an open abdomen and no hollow viscus injury. The immediate enteral nutrition cohort was defined as initiation of enteral feeds within 36 hours after acute resuscitation completion. Multivariate stepwise logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with immediate enteral nutrition.

RESULTS

One hundred subjects met inclusion criteria; 32 immediate enteral nutrition and 68 nonimmediate enteral nutrition. Nearly all patients underwent fascial closure (93.8% immediate enteral nutrition versus 94.1% nonimmediate enteral nutrition), with an average closure day of 6.47 +/- 0.83 with immediate enteral nutrition and 8.55 +/- 0.85 with nonimmediate enteral nutrition (p = 0.129). No significant difference in multiorgan dyfunction syndrome, length of ventilator days, ICU days, hospital days, or mortality was seen between groups. The rate of pneumonia was significantly different: 14 (43.8%) in immediate enteral nutrition and 49 (72.1%) in nonimmediate enteral nutrition (p = 0.008). Immediate enteral nutrition remained independently associated with a reduction in pneumonia within our stepwise regression (odds ratio = 0.32; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.79).

CONCLUSIONS

Immediate enteral nutrition after damage control appears safe, with no effect on abdominal closure rate. In addition, the reduction in pneumonia associated with immediate enteral nutrition suggests a tangible benefit. Immediate enteral nutrition should be considered in patients with open abdomens after severe trauma.

The concept of damage control: extending the paradigm to emergency general surgery

OBJECTIVE

A damage control (DC) approach was developed to improve survival in severely injured trauma patients. The role of DC in acute surgery (AS) patients who are critically ill, as a result of sepsis or overwhelming haemorrhage continues to evolve. The goal of this study was to assess morbidity and mortality of AS patients who underwent DC, and to compare observed and predicted morbidity and mortality as calculated from APACHE II and physiological and operative severity score for the enumeration of mortality and morbidity (POSSUM) scores.

METHODS

Consecutive acute surgery patients who underwent DC from 2002 to 2004 were included. Retrospectively collected data included patient demographics, physiological parameters, surgical indications and procedures, mortality, morbidity, as well as volumes of crystalloid and colloid (plasma and red blood cell) resuscitation. Observed mortality and complications were compared to those calculated from APACHE II and POSSUM scores. Data were analysed using the Mann-Whitney test for median values, chi-square and Fisher's exact tests for proportions.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (mean age 53 years, seven men, nine women) underwent DC. The most common indications for DC included abdominal sepsis (6/15), intraoperative bleeding (5/15), and bowel ischaemia (3/15). The mean intraoperative blood loss during the index procedure was 2060mL. There were 2.4 average procedures per patient. At the end of DC II (36.5h), mean infusion of crystalloid was 17L, packed red blood cells was 3.6L, and plasma was 3L. Eight of 16 patients required vasopressor administration during resuscitation. At 28 days, there were five unexpected survivors as predicted by POSSUM and three by APACHE II (observed mortality seven, predicted mortality by the two methods: 12 (P=0.074), and 10 (P=0.24), respectively). Five patients died prior to definitive abdominal closure. Split thickness skin grafting (4/16) and primary fascial closure (4/16) constituted the most common methods of abdominal closure. Surgical morbidity predicted by POSSUM (98%) and actual morbidity (100%) were similar.

CONCLUSION

Although the morbidity and mortality of AS patients undergoing DC is high, the application of DC principles in this group may reduce mortality compared to that predicted by POSSUM or APACHE II. In order to adequately demonstrate this contention, large, multi-institutional studies of DC in AS patients need to be performed. The POSSUM score appears to accurately estimate the high morbidity in general surgery DC patients, and supports the importance of team management of these complex patients by acute care surgery specialists.

Incidence and management of abdominal wall defects after intestinal and multivisceral transplantation

BACKGROUND

Successful primary closure of the abdominal wall following visceral organ transplantation is not always feasible. Primary closure under tension can lead to fascial ischemia or necrosis, with subsequent dehiscence. Thus, alternate techniques to achieve abdominal wall closure are an important technical aspect in intestinal transplantation. The authors review their experience managing abdominal wall defects following intestinal or multivisceral transplantation.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the transplant database revealed 28 intestinal transplants in 24 patients from program inception in 1991 to January of 2002. The management of six intestinal transplant recipients with giant posttransplant abdominal wall defects is reviewed, and a novel technique is described for initially managing defects with prosthetic grafts that were serially reduced in size until a clean granulating bed was established, at which time they underwent permanent coverage using a meshed split-thickness skin graft.

RESULTS

Of the 28 transplants, primary fascial closure was possible in only 14. In the other 14 patients, the fascia could not be closed primarily at the time of transplantation. The donor weight-to-recipient weight ratio was significantly greater in patients with abdominal wall closure problems (0.64 versus 1.09; p < 0.005). The incidence of retransplantation was also higher in those with abdominal closure problems compared with those whose fascia could be closed primarily (five of 14 versus one of 14). The six patients managed with skin graft closure did not have any wound complications after grafting.

CONCLUSIONS

Abdominal wall defect after intestinal and multivisceral transplantation is a common problem without an ideal solution. Use of a skin graft on granulating abdominal viscera frozen with adhesions is a simple and reasonable solution to a complex problem.

The effect of different temporary abdominal closure techniques on fascial wound healing and postoperative adhesions in experimental secondary peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Secondary peritonitis causes considerable mortality and morbidity. New strategies have been introduced like relaparotomy and temporary abdominal closure in the management of such persistent intra-abdominal infections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rats were divided into five groups each having ten animals. After induction of peritonitis, relaparotomies were done, and the abdomen was closed by different temporary abdominal closure techniques. After performing two relaparotomies during a 48-h period, all fascias closed primarily and incisional tensile strengths, hydroxyproline contents, and adhesions were measured on the following seventh day.

RESULTS

The median values of tensile strength and hydroxyproline concentrations were lowest in skin-only closure rats. Intraperitoneal adhesion scores were highest in Bogota bag closure group.

CONCLUSION

Primary, Bogota bag, and polyprolene mesh closures seem to be safe in terms of early fascial wound healing. Although it is easy to perform, skin-only closure technique has deleterious effects on fascial wound healing probably due to fascial retraction. Interestingly, Bogota bag has caused increased intraperitoneal adhesion formation.

Abdominal Wall Reconstruction in a Trauma Setting

According to the World Health Organization "Global burden of disease study", future demographics of trauma are expected to show an increase in morbidity and mortality. In the past few decades, the field of trauma surgery has evolved to provide global and comprehensive care of the injured. While the modern day trauma surgeon is well trained to deal with multitrauma patients with injuries involving several systems, the ever-increasing nature and variety of multitrauma has left lacuna in certain areas. One such area is the management of abdominal wall injuries, which has been the domain of both plastic and reconstructive and general surgeons. The trauma surgeon is adept at treating the contents of the abdomen but not always the container. If not managed properly complications associated with abdominal wall injuries can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. In considering reconstruction of the abdominal wall in multitrauma patients proper evaluation, scrupulous planning, appropriate, and meticulous technique improve the chances for success with minimal complications. In the present article, we provide a brief description of the most commonly used procedures, and more importantly we outline the principles and guidelines applied to abdominal wall reconstruction in order to inform the trauma surgeon of different available treatment options. In doing so, we hope that this review will assist trauma surgeons in their overall care of patients that present with abdominal injuries.

When Trauma Means a Stoma

Trauma is a leading cause of death and disability. When traumatic injuries require ostomy surgery, the wound, ostomy, and continence nurse acts as a crucial part of the trauma team. This literature review describes mechanisms of injury associated with creation of a stoma, key aspects of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing care in trauma populations and presents suggestions for future research.

Early definitive abdominal closure using serial closure technique on injured soldiers returning from Afghanistan and Iraq

BACKGROUND

Twenty-nine of 1,284 battle-injured soldiers arriving at Walter Reed Army Medical Center from Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom have abdominal wounds requiring delayed definitive closure with Gore-Tex (WL Gore & Assoc) mesh.

METHODS

Serial abdominal closure (SAC) leading to early definitive abdominal closure (EDAC) was achieved using Gore-Tex mesh. Inpatient records of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom soldiers with open or reopened abdomens were reviewed from March 2003 to August 2005.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine soldiers, average age 27 years (range 20 to 42 years) injured by secondary blast effects (n = 19); penetrating (n = 8); motor vehicle crashes (n = 1); and crushing injury (n = 1) were included in the study. Patients arrived at Walter Reed Army Medical Center 8 days (range 3 to 56 days) after injury with Gore-Tex mesh placed 6 days (range 0 to 26 days) from arrival and 14 days (range 4 to 79 days) from injury. SAC was achieved with towel clamp tightening or excision of midline mesh and drawing fascia closer to the midline for an average of 46 days (range 15 to 160 days) before EDAC. One patient is undergoing SAC and another was transferred to another facility. EDAC was achieved in 24 of the remaining of 27 patients (89%). Four patients required early removal of the Gore-Tex mesh, resulting in three patients with planned ventral hernia. One patient underwent EDAC with primary closure and fascial release. EDAC was completed with polypropylene mesh in 17 patients and 6 patients had original Gore-Tex in place. Patients were discharged from the hospital an average of 18 days after closure (range 1 to 89 days) with total hospital days of 62 (range 17 to 197 days). Average followup of patients from placement of Gore-Tex mesh is 264 days (range 31 to 855 days).

CONCLUSIONS

SAC with Gore-Tex mesh led to EDAC in 89% of patients and proved to be a safe and effective alternative to planned ventral hernia. SAC allowed protection of abdominal contents, effective fluid management, reclamation of abdominal domain, and early rehabilitation with minimal complications and only one hernia reoccurrence.

Reconstrução abdominal tardia sem tensão após laparostomia: uma nova técnica

OBJETIVO: A reconstrução abdominal tardia após laparostomia é sempre um procedimento desafiador para o cirurgião devido à necessidade de se corrigir um grande defeito na parede abdominal anterior, o que habitualmente demanda a lise de extensas aderências entre alças intestinais e o tecido cicatricial, sem que a hérnia incisional seja o resultado final. Neste trabalho, propomos uma técnica simples e inédita para esta reconstrução abdominal, sem tensão, utilizando tela de polipropileno sobre o tecido de granulação, sem necessidade de qualquer dissecção intra-peritoneal. MÉTODO: Descrição da técnica e estudo prospectivo de 17 pacientes submetidos à mesma entre 1998 e 2005. Foram analisados; a causa da laparostomia, o tempo entre a laparostomia e a reconstrução, o tempo operatório e a evolução pós-operatória imediata e tardia incluindo a incidência de hérnias incisionais. RESULTADOS: A idade média dos pacientes foi de 41 anos. As indicações da laparostomia foram; peritonite em oito pacientes, trauma abdominal em outros oito e pancreatite necrotizante em um. O tempo médio até a reconstrução abdominal foi de 14 meses. O tempo médio do procedimento cirúrgico foi de 130 minutos. O período médio de internação hospitalar foi de 2,6 dias para os 15 pacientes sem complicações pós-operatórias. Não houveram óbitos ou ocorrência de síndrome de compartimento abdominal relacionados à técnica. A média do período de acompanhamento pós-operatório é de 24 meses e até o momento não há ocorrência de hérnia incisional em todo o grupo. CONCLUSÕES: A técnica aqui proposta é de fácil execução e reprodutibilidade, torna desnecessária a manipulação da cavidade abdominal com conseqüente diminuição do risco de lesão de vísceras abdominais e proporciona o fechamento definitivo da laparostomia sem tensão. Esta técnica não acarretou síndrome de compartimento abdominal e nenhum paciente desenvolveu hérnia incisional até o momento.

Effect of Temporary Abdominal Closure on Colonic Anastomosis and Postoperative Adhesions in Experimental Secondary Peritonitis

BACKGROUND

The effect of relaparotomies and temporary abdominal closure on colonic anastomoses and postoperative adhesions is under debate.

METHODS

In the experiments reported here, colonic anastomosis was constructed 24 hours after cecal ligation and puncture in rats that were divided into three groups of eight animals each. The abdomen was closed primarily in groups I and II, and a Bogota bag was used for abdominal closure in group III. At 24 hours following anastomosis, relaparotomy was performed only in group II and III rats, and the abdomen was closed directly in group II; after removal of the Bogota bag in group III animals, the abdomen was closed directly. On the fifth day of anastomotic construction, bursting pressures and tissue hydroxyproline content of the anastomoses, along with peritoneal adhesions, were assessed and compared.

RESULTS

Mean anastomotic bursting pressures and hydroxyproline contents did not differ among the groups. Median adhesion scores were significantly higher in group III than the other two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Relaparotomy and the type of temporary closure have no negative effect on anastomotic healing in rats with peritonitis. Temporary abdominal closure with a Bogota bag caused a significantly high rate of adhesions.

Spill Your Guts! Perceptions of Trauma Association of Canada Member Surgeons Regarding the Open Abdomen and the Abdominal Compartment Syndrome

BACKGROUND

To survey surgeon opinion regarding the management of the open abdomen (OA) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) to assess current practice and direct future prospective clinical studies.

METHODS

Opinions of self-designated trauma, general, pediatric, and vascular surgeons belonging to the Trauma Association of Canada (TAC), were surveyed through a mixed-mode (mail and Web based) questionnaire.

RESULTS

Among 102 eligible candidates, 86 (84%) responded; 83% did regular trauma call, 45% regular critical care call being a separate call 79% of the time; 79% worked in centers serving >500,000 people; the median year of practice entry was 1997. There was no standard definition of what constituted an "open abdomen", preferred time for re-operation, or preferred method for alternate fascial closure, although 90% reported having not closing the fascia after a trauma laparotomy. Being "physically unable" was reported as an indication twice as often as objective measures of airway or bladder pressures. The decision to proceed with OA was reported as rarely or never being made preoperatively by 78% of respondents. None reported an institutional policy regarding OA. Eighty-four percent reported (re)opening an abdomen for primary ACS, 46% for secondary ACS, 28% for tertiary ACS. Self-assessed familiarity for the ACS was 6/7 on a Likert scale. Physical examination was reported as a diagnostic criterion for ACS by 66%, and used to screen by 21% of respondents.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no consensus regarding definition, functional indications, or management of an open abdomen in the perceptions of Canadian trauma providers despite a high self reported level of familiarity with the abdominal compartment syndrome. This is an area of practice with potential and requirements for further multi-center study.