Open abdomen: a comprehensive review

Abstract

When the abdominal viscera are visible due to a defect in the abdominal wall, which is usually caused intentionally or as a result of abdominal compartment syndrome, it is referred to as an open abdomen. As a protracted open abdomen can result in problems including fluid and protein losses, intestinal fistulization, and loss of abdominal dominance, the main goals of temporal abdominal closure techniques are to prevent fluid losses and loss of dominance. There are several techniques for short-term abdominal closure, each having advantages and disadvantages. These techniques include patch closure, silo closure, and negative pressure systems based on towels and sponges. After temporary abdominal closure, the patient is monitored in the critical care unit while any required adjustments are made to the abdominal dressings. Observational studies have shown that the Wittmann Patch has the highest average rate of primary fascial closure when compared to other operations. Yet, a temporary closure of this sort might not be adequate to stop fluid loss on its own. To monitor fluid loss, a negative pressure device (sponge- or towel-based) is advised. It can be used either on its own or in combination with other techniques for closing the temporal abdominal cavity. When the sign of an open abdomen has been removed, the abdomen is closed, ideally using a major fascial closure. If primary fascial closure cannot be achieved, functional closure may be accomplished using a biological mesh inlay method. While there is a good probability of developing a posterior hernia, this treatment adds new fascial tissue where the natural fascial limits are located. The fascia defect may be filled in with primary skin closure or skin grafts once a layer of granulation tissue has developed over the consolidated visceral mass if the space between the fascia's borders is too large for functional closure. Effective abdominal closure and the prevention of issues ultimately depend on proper management and supervision of temporary abdominal closure.