The open abdomen: practical implications for the practicing surgeon

The open abdomen is a necessary sequela after damage-control surgery or abdominal compartment syndrome. Management of the patient in the intensive care unit continues to evolve, with considerations of fluid resuscitation, enteral nutrition, and supportive care. Management of the abdominal contents incorporates several basic techniques and considerations: appropriate temporary covering, enteric injury repair in most patients, placement of an anastomosis in an area of the abdomen with minimal manipulation without exposure to the atmosphere, acquiring enteral access for initiation of enteral nutrition, and ultimate abdominal closure. An understanding of these complex factors is instrumental for the practicing surgeon.