This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS
Temporary closure of open abdominal wounds by the modified sandwich–vacuum pack technique. BJS 2003; 90: 718-722.
Published: 28th February 2003
Authors: P. H. Navsaria, M. Bunting, J. Omoshoro‐Jones, A. J. Nicol, D. Kahn
Background
A 5‐year experience with the modified sandwich–vacuum pack technique, using an opened 3‐litre urological irrigation bag and continuous high‐pressure suction, for temporary abdominal wall closure is presented.
Method
The records of all patients who underwent temporary abdominal wall closure using this method from January 1996 to December 2000 were examined.
Results
The modified sandwich–vacuum pack was used 139 times in 55 patients. Forty patients sustained penetrating trauma while 15 patients sustained blunt trauma. The mean Injury Severity Score was 19 (range 9–34). Intra‐abdominal sepsis (51 per cent) was the commonest indication, followed by visceral oedema (18 per cent), abdominal compartment syndrome (16 per cent), intra‐abdominal packing (11 per cent) and abdominal wall defects (4 per cent). The overall mortality rate was 45 per cent. Three patients (5 per cent) developed enterocutaneous fistula. Of the 30 survivors, 16 patients underwent primary fascial closure.
Conclusion
The modified sandwich–vacuum pack technique of temporary abdominal wall closure is easy and rapid, cost effective and provides an effective means of containing abdominal wall contents. Copyright © 2003 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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