BACKGROUND: We describe a vacuum pack technique for a temporary abdominal wound closure. METHODS: The vacuum pack materials were a plastic sheet, laparotomy pads, latex tube, 50cm x 30cm adhesive-backed plastic, and a vacuum source. Twelve patients underwent the procedure as follows: we cut several slits in the plastic sheet, which is applied directly over the abdominal contents. We put laparotomy pads over the plastic sheet, and then a latex tube is placed over the laparotomy pads. Another layer of laparotomy pads is placed over the latex tube, which is stuck by an adhesive-backed plastic. We connect the tube to a vacuum source with negative pressure between -10 to -50 mmHg. The pack is changed every 12 hours. RESULTS: Severe peritonitis was the most common indication followed by the abdominal compartment syndrome. Definitive abdominal closure was performed in eight patients (67%) after an average of 11 days (9 to 21 days) from the first day of laparostomy. There were no complications directly associated with the method. Daily cost was approximately R$ 50.00. CONCLUSION: The vacuum pack kept the underlying abdominal viscera secure beneath the dressing; in addition, it controlled fluid leakage and edema. Definitive abdominal wound closure was possible in the majority of the patients. This was achieved at a reasonable financial cost.
Abdominal wall; Occlusive dressings; Vacuum; Digestive system surgical procedures
