EP202 - Mesh-Mediated Fascial Traction (MMFT) and Negative Pressure Abdominal Dressing (ABTHERA): Useful in Difficult Open Abdomens?

Abstract Background Challenging abdominal surgical emergencies may require an 'Open Abdomen (OA)' as a life-saving procedure. OA has serious complications: wound infection, fluid and protein loss, catabolic state, loss of abdominal domain, and entero-atmospheric fistula. To assess the efficacy of mesh-mediated fascial traction (MMFT) & Abthera Dressing in achieving definitive abdominal closures. Patients and Method Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 6 patients managed between August and November 23 in a large DGH. Following laparotomy and management of primary pathology, Abthera Dressing combined with bilateral continuous 2-0 PDS suture fixation at 0.5cm gap of macroporous Prolene (Merinium, Meril Life) meshes to each rectus sheath followed by sequential midline mesh traction closure over a time period that allowed subsequent definitive abdominal wound closure. Data collection included patient demographics (age, sex, BMI, ASA), intervention details for OA, wound characteristics, follow-up, and outcome. Results Six included M: F 4:2, age 61* (40-76 ) years, BMI 30* ( 24-35), ASA 3. Three were strangulated incisional hernia, 2 burst abdomens from faecal peritonitis, and 1 necrotizing fasciitis. Initial wound length 25*(20-32) cm, width 12.5* (4-17) cm after management of primary pathology reduced to width 4.5* (0-9) cm through MMFT and Abthera Dressing followed by definitive abdominal closure. Relook surgery required were 4* (1-9) with one full and 4 bridged mesh closures. Length of stay 39* (14-74) days. One death from respiratory failure. Conclusion The study highlights the benefit of MMFT & Abthera Dressing in achieving definitive abdominal closure for challenging OA where primary abdominal closure was not possible. * Median