Vertical traction device prevents abdominal wall retraction and facilitates early primary fascial closure of septic and non-septic open abdomen

Purpose One of the major challenges in the management of patients with septic and non-septic open abdomen (OA) is to control abdominal wall retraction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a novel vertical traction device (VTD) on primary fascial closure (PFC) and prevention of fascial retraction. Methods Twenty patients treated with OA were included in this retrospective multicenter study. All patients were initially stabilized with laparostomy and the abdomen temporarily sealed either with a Bogota bag or a negative pressure wound therapy system (NPWT). Results The mean duration of OA and fascia-to-fascia distance (FTF) prior to the VTD application were 3 days and 15 cm, respectively. At relook laparotomy 48 h after VTD implementation, the mean FTF distance significantly decreased to 10 cm (p = 0.0081). In all cases, PFC was achieved after a mean period of 7 days. Twelve patients received the VTD in combination with a NPWT, whereas in eight patients, the device was combined with an alternative temporary abdominal closure system (TAC). Although not statistically significant, the FTF distance remarkably decreased in both groups at relook laparotomy 48 h following the device implementation. The mean periods of PFC for patients with septic and non-septic OA were comparable (7.5 vs. 7 days). During follow-up, two patients developed an incisional hernia. Conclusion Vertical traction device prevents fascial retraction and facilitates early PFC in OA. In combination with NPWT, rapid fascial closure of large abdominal defects can be achieved.