A novel approach to sealing the denuded dermis of the abdominal wall with a negative pressure wound device after a decompressive laparotomy

Abstract

The open abdomen is a well-known technique that is applied in a wide variety of clinical situations, including treatment of abdominal compartment syndrome, damage control laparotomy, and severe intraabdominal sepsis. Disease states such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis or extensive deep partial and/ or full-thickness torso burns involving the abdomen often result in a complete epidermal and partial dermal loss. When ABThera Open Abdomen Negative Pressure Wound Therapy is attempted in these patients, the exposed subcutaneous tissue rarely allows for an adequate seal between the adhesive barrier and the denuded skin. This is because successful placement of negative pressure wound therapy device necessitates having a dry epidermal surface allowing the adhesive tape to actually adhere. The ABThera Open Abdomen Negative Pressure Wound Therapy visceral protective layer was placed over the exposed bowel, followed by the blue perforated foam interface and then the adhesive barrier drape. Over the top of the “less-than-air-tight” adhesive barrier drape was placed a standard isolation transport bowel bag, which was stapled to the dermis, but outside of the previously placed adhesive barrier drape's diameter to “bolster” the adhesive barrier drape, only allowing the suction tube to extend inferiorly. This ABThera Open Abdomen Negative Pressure Wound Therapy ABNPWT held suction, even during multiple adjacent dressing changes, despite the exposed dermis. This case report reveals a unique approach that solves the issue of inadequate seal due to extensive burns to the torso and has significant benefit in burn and wound care practices.