Options in the Management of the Open Abdomen

This book by Madbak and Dangleben has collated lot of information that has been presented and published in many disparate arenas into a single easy to read source. In an area where there is more experience and “favorite techniques” than true evidence based answers, they provide a wealth of information along with outstanding photographic support that makes this an excellent resource for all surgeons caring for this population. Similar to many things in life, when treating patients  with the open abdomen one size or methodology does not fit all and this book will assuredly contain at least one possible answer to your patient’s problem.    Although the numbers of “open abdomens” are decreasing due to changes in resuscitation and transfusion practices, it still represents a complex complication that can be challenging to deal with.  This ambitious textbook on the management of the open abdomen provides a practical approach for addressing this complex problem.    One of the more unique aspects of this textbook is its detailed “How to” approach for the wide variety of techniques utilized in the management of the open abdomen.  While there may be no consensus as to what constitutes the optimal management of the open abdomen, this book articulates a number of options and their advantages.  Most importantly, it provides high quality photographs that enhance the step by step “How to” approach of the text.  More recent developments including using biologic mesh, implementing complex abdominal wall reconstruction and utilizing minimally invasive endoscopic techniques are described.  This book is not only appropriate for all practicing surgeons that deal with this complex issue, but is also relevant for residents and fellows who arejust getting their first exposure to open abdomens. 

Table of Contents:
Historical Perspective.- Damage Control.- Abdominal Compartment Syndrome.- Types of Closure.- The Biologics Explosion Era.- Considerations in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction.- Endoscopic Component Separation for Ventral Hernia Repair.- Complications.

About the Author :
Dale A. Dangleben, MD Lehigh Valley Health Network Lehigh Valley Physician Group Allentown, PA USA Firas G. Madbak, MD University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine Trauma & Surgical Critical Care The Reading Hospital West Reading, PA USA

Review :
From the book reviews: “This small monograph provides an overview of the history and available techniques for managing patients without immediate abdominal closure after a variety of surgical problems including trauma, vascular catastrophes, or acute intestinal failure. … The audience includes surgeons at all levels of training. … This quick overview cites much of the important literature reflecting the evolution in surgical care for an important problem in acute care surgery.” (David J. Dries, Doody’s Book Reviews, March, 2015)