Open abdomen

Objectives

To provide guidance for the management of the open abdomen for deployed surgeons. It provides advice for reasons to form an open abdomen and also techniques that may be more appropriate in a resource stretched environment. 

Scope

These guidelines are for deployed clinicians who manage patients who undergo a laparotomy. 

Audience

Deployed surgeons who are performing laparotomies and will make decisions regarding temporary closure of the abdomen. 

Advanced Assessment & Management

Prolonged Casualty Care

Increasing length of time that temporary closure is used decreases likelihood of definitive closure will be possible. Consider timings of relook operations and decisions to definitively close the abdomen. Consideration will also need to be given to resources involved in recurrent relook operations and maintaining open abdomens.