The sentinel placement of an open abdomen negative pressure unit.

The open abdomen is a common condition after a trauma necessitating celiotomy with the inability to close the fascia either due to damage control surgery or abdominal compartment syndrome. Traditionally the open abdomen has been approached with the use of the open abdomen temporary abdominal closure (Barker Vacuum Pack Dressing). More recently there has been the addition of the ABThera™ open abdomen negative pressure unit introduced by KCI. Our case report is based on the first patient to have placement of the ABThera™ device.