Total Management of the Open Abdomen

Total Management of the Open Abdomen

The concept of the open abdomen is not new, although historically it has been associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Over the past two decades, evolving physiological knowledge and intensive care practices, together with the advent of various temporary abdominal closure (TAC) techniques have resulted in many centers reporting significant improvements in patient outcomes1,2,3. Techniques for TAC are varied and have evolved from basic methods to more dynamic modern devices.

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  1. Kaplan M.  Managing the open abdomen. Ostomy and Wound Manage 2004; 50(1A Suppl): C2, 1-8.
  2. Wild T, Stortecky S, Stremitzer S, et al. Abdominal dressing – a new standard in therapy of the open abdomen following secondary peritonitis? Zentralbl Chir 2006; 131(Suppl): S111-14.
  3. Kaplan M, Banwell P, Orgill DP, et al. Guidelines for the management of the open abdomen. Wounds 2005; 17 (Suppl): 1-24.