The use of Gore Bio-A in the management of the open abdomen.

Non-permanent, non-woven options for the closure of an open abdomen have previously been limited to biologics such as Permacol or Strattice. Gore Bio-A is constructed from biocompatible synthetic fibres, the use of which has only been described in the repair of inguinal hernia, hiatal hernia and fistula-in-ano. A 60-year-old male underwent emergency laparotomy, partial gastrectomy and formation of a feeding jejunostomy for a strangulated and perforated intrathoracic hiatus hernia. His abdominal wall subsequently dehisced for which he underwent laparostomy and subsequent early closure with a Gore Bio-A mesh, secured in an onlay manner with 2/0 vicryl. Functional and cosmetic outcomes were satisfactory and the patient was discharged home. The use of Gore Bio-A is a safe, feasible and cost effective alternative to traditional biologics for the closure of a laparostomy, deployment of which is safe within a contaminated field. Further prospective data is needed to clarify its role.