Haematomas of the abdominal wall.
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Abdominal wall disruption following blunt trauma is a rare but challenging injury, both in the acute and convalescent phases. The present report describes the recent experience with this injury at a single adult trauma center. In a 22-month period, nine patients with traumatic abdominal wall disruption were managed. Flank and anteroinferior abdominal wall defects were most common. Associated injuries included 6 patients with a pelvic fracture and 4 patients with rectosigmoid injuries. Immediate primary repair of the defect was attempted in seven cases at the time of trauma laparotomy, but was difficult and often unsuccessful because of the related tissue destruction. Delayed abdominal wall repair was performed in patients with symptomatic disability (n = 5) and, if required, restoration of intestinal continuity was performed at a separate operation before abdominal wall repair. Delayed repair with autogenous tissue included the use of tensor fascia lata, rectus femoris muscle, rectus abdominis fascia, and latissimus dorsi muscle. Reconstruction with prosthetic mesh was required in two patients. One early and one late recurrence occurred, resulting in reoperation. In conclusion, traumatic abdominal wall disruption represents a complex challenge for both general and plastic surgeons. The key to successful surgical management seems to be a delayed staged repair with autogenous tissue when feasible.
Recent reports suggest that the technique of abdominal closure in neonates with anterior abdominal wall defects (AWD) correlates with the outcome. The aim of this study is to analyze factors related to mortality and morbidity, according to the technique of abdominal closure of these neonates. Retrospective analysis of charts from 76 consecutive neonates with AWD treated in a single institution. They were divided according to the type of abdominal wall closure: group I: primary closure, group II: silo followed by primary closure and group III: silo followed by polypropylene mesh. Outcome was analyzed separately for neonates with gastroschisis and omphalocele. There were 13 deaths (17.1%). Mortality for neonates with isolated defects was 9.6%. Mortality rate was similar in all groups for either neonates with gastroschisis or omphalocele. Postoperative complications were not significantly different among groups except for a prolonged time of hospitalization in group III. Mortality rate is not correlated with the type of abdominal closure. Neonates with primary closure or with other methods of abdominal wall closure had similar rate of postoperative complications. Neonates with mesh closure of the abdomen have prolonged hospitalization. The use of a polypropylene mesh is a good alternative for neonates whose primary closure or closure after silo placement is not possible.
Reconstruction of large abdominal wall defects not amenable to primary closure remains a challenging problem. Various reconstructive techniques have been described in the surgical literature each with its advantages and disadvantages. In this report the authors describe their experience in treating 11 patients with large abdominal wall defects utilizing prosthetic mesh in conjunction with tissue expanders. Between 1986 and 1997 there were 6 pediatric and 5 adult patients treated with this method. The etiology included three congenital omphaloceles, five cases of necrotizing fasciitis, and three gunshot wounds. All patients initially required insertion of prosthetic mesh to bridge their large abdominal wall defects. This was followed by staged abdominal wall reconstruction with tissue expanders and prosthetic mesh. None of the patients had mesh infection or extrusion, and none developed enteric fistula or recurrent hernia. The tissue expansion process was well tolerated by all patients. One patient had partial exposure of the tissue expander due to thinning of the expanded skin. Our results suggest that the use of tissue expanders provides reliable, well-vascularized soft-tissue coverage and minimizes potential mesh-related complications in abdominal wall reconstruction.
Congenital malformations of the abdominal wall consist of a combination of a parietal opening and visceral abnormalities. The most frequent are omphalocele and laparoschisis. Embryological analysis of the formation of the abdominal wall distinguishes omphalocele, due to absence of differentiation of the lateral folds of the embryo, from laparoschisis, due to absence of differentiation of the mesenchyma at one point of the somatopleural lining. Clinically, omphalocele consists of an opening of the abdominal wall, lined by a double layer (peritoneum and external layer of the amniotic membrane), which may rupture before birth. Laparoschisis is a true antenatal hernia lying to one side of the umbilical cord. The other abnormalities of the abdominal wall are less common: muscle and purely cutaneous aplasia. The treatment of omphaloceles requires multidisplinary management. Several surgical techniques are used, mainly primary closure and rectomyoplasty. Primary closure of the abdominal wall is only possible in one-half or one-third of cases.
Repair of abdominal wall hernias is the most frequently performed operation in surgery. Primary hernias arise at anatomical weak points; incisional hernias result from laparotomies. As the fascia heals slowly, the suture should be strong enough to withstand the intraabdominal pressure. Complications in wound healing may lead to a hernia, especially when absorbable sutures have been used. The rate of incisional hernias is technically influenced by the type of incision, the suture technique, and the suture material. To achieve adequate repair it is often necessary to change the principles of abdominal wall closure, for example by using alloplastic material. The meshes reinforce the architecture of the abdominal wall both by pure mechanical means and by induction of a stable scar formation (polypropylene, polyester).
A large abdominal wall hernia, not amenable to primary closure, may require insertion of a prosthesis. The ideal prosthesis maintains strength, is incorporated by surrounding tissues, and does not stimulate adhesions. These qualities vary among available synthetic prostheses. We tested tensile strength, bursting strength, and adhesion formation in response to six materials used in repair of abdominal wall hernias. Adult Sprague-Dawley rats (196) were randomly divided into a control group and six experimental groups. A 4 by 4 cm full-thickness resection of abdominal wall was closed with patches of polypropylene mesh (Marlex), polyglactin 910 mesh (Vicryl), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-tex), Dacron-reinforced silicone rubber (Silastic), preserved human dura (PHD), or polypropylene mesh overlying gelatin film (Marlex and Gelfilm, respectively). In controls the 4 cm longitudinal full-thickness incisions were closed primarily. Seven rats randomly selected from each group were sacrificed after 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks; bursting and tensile strength (tensiometer) and adhesion formation were assessed. There were no differences in bursting strength among the experimental groups at each testing period. Although bursting strength increased linearly with time it was significantly weaker than in controls at 1 and 8 weeks (P less than 0.05). Tensiometric data were inconclusive due to wide variability within the experimental groups. Adhesion formation was moderate to maximal at all evaluation periods for Marlex and Gore-tex. Early adhesion formation was minimal to moderate for both PHD and Vicryl, but later increased with PHD and decreased with Vicryl as this prosthesis was absorbed. No adhesions formed with Marlex and Gelfilm until the gelatin dissolved (1 week), after which the adhesion response was similar to that with Marlex alone. No adhesions formed after Silastic implantation, but graft extrusion and evisceration were common (75%). Controls had no adhesions at all evaluation periods. Wound strength was similar for all prosthetic materials. Absorbable prosthetic Vicryl provided the best long-term protection against adhesions.
Primary actinomycosis of the abdominal wall is a rare clinical entity. Only 7 adequately described cases have been reported in the English literature. We report a case of isolated abdominal wall actinomycosis involving the left lower quadrant of the abdominal wall in a 32-year-old diabetic male. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathological examination. Surgical drainage of the abscess followed by long-term administration of penicillin resulted in cure. The clinicopathological spectrum of actinomycosis is reviewed and isolated involvement of the abdominal wall is characterized in light of the knowledge acquired from the available literature on this rare clinical presentation. The significance of obtaining tissues for culture and histopathology in all inflammatory lesions is emphasized.
OBJECTIVE: Abdominal wall lesions often present as palpable masses. The purpose of this presentation is to provide an overview of the sonographic appearances of different abdominal wall lesions. METHODS: Patients were scanned with high-frequency (5- to 12-MHz) linear transducers. Extended or panoramic views were recorded often to show the lesion in perspective to adjacent structures in the abdominal wall. RESULTS: The different layers of the abdominal wall could be clearly shown on high-frequency sonography, and the abdominal wall abnormalities were recognized in all the patients. CONCLUSIONS: Hernias are the most common abdominal wall lesions. Herniated bowel loops have variable appearances depending on their air-fluid content and degree of obstruction. Localized fluid collections in the abdominal wall (seromas, liquefying hematomas, and abscesses) can be well visualized. More infrequently, tumors or vascular lesions can be identified in the abdominal wall.
An analysis of clinical and US investigations of the abdominal wall in 210 patients with different surgical diseases of the abdominal cavity allowed division of the patients into three groups: without clinical and ultrasonic alterations, with a mild degree and with a severe degree of the anatomo-functional weakness of the abdominal wall. Indications for preventive endoprosthesis of the abdominal wall were determined using the method of quantitative evaluation of risk factors of postoperative hernias developed by the authors. Preventive endoprosthesis of the abdominal wall with a polypropylene endoprosthesis "Esfil" was fulfilled during operation on organs of the abdominal cavity in 11.9% of the patients by absolute indications. The number of postoperative hernias was reduced to 0.9%.
Abdominal wall competence is a major concern of all plastic surgeons using the TRAM flap for breast reconstruction. Low hernia rates and adequate abdominal stability are standard expectations in abdominal wall closure. Described here is this institution's experience with the use of a large piece of synthetic mesh as a supplementary reinforcement for the entire abdominal wall in an attempt to stabilize it and achieve a superior abdominal aesthetic result. Twenty-five consecutive patients had routine reinforcement with the extended mesh technique. Mean patient follow-up was 24 months with a minimum of 1 year. No hernia or mesh-related infection were encountered and only one patient had a lower abdominal bulge. We recommend the use of a large synthetic mesh for improved strength and aesthetic quality of the abdominal wall after TRAM flap breast reconstruction.
A case of abdominal wall desmoid which enlarged toward the liver and mimicked an intra-abdominal tumor is presented. T*2-weighted MR images clearly demonstrated the tumor's continuity with the rectus abdominis muscle. The case presented suggests MRI may provide more valuable information concerning the origin of a right-upper-quadrant mass than CT does. However, the nature of the signals and attachment which this case showed were so unusual for desmoids that this case has not been diagnosed accurately.
BACKGROUND: Mechanical lifting of the abdominal wall, a method based on traction and consequent elevation of the abdominal wall, is an alternative procedure to create enough intra-abdominal space necessary for videolaparoscopic surgery, dispensing the need for intraperitoneal gas insufflation. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the technical feasibility of this procedure to carry out a videolaparoscopic cholecystectomy, while analyzing the clinical and functional aspects of this technique. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In the Digestive Tract Surgery Discipline of the Medical School at the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil, was created the equipment to perform videolaparoscopic surgery using this method. The equipment has two sections: an external part which consisted of a frame attached to the operating table, inside which there is a sliding steel cable, moved by a ratched which is located at the lower end of one of the frame rods; the internal rod, the support, has an "L" shape, and its horizontal branch is made up of three turning rods and which is connected to the steel cable after insertion into the abdominal cavity. Ten patients underwent videolaparoscopic cholecystectomy using this equipment. The time taken to install the equipment, the operating area characteristics, the interference from the lifting equipment on surgical movements and on the intra-operative cholangiography, the measurements made of the force used during traction and extension of the abdominal wall elevation, and the medication required for postoperative analgesia were all evaluated. RESULTS: There were no intra-operative complications, and in none of the cases was it found necessary to convert to open surgery. We considered the insertion a safe and uncomplicated procedure, and the traction system efficient. Apart from the elevation of the abdominal wall, the distribution of the viscera inside the abdominal cavity is fundamental for the operating area. Depending on the position of the epigastric trocar, the lifting equipment can interfere with the surgical instruments mobility. It may be necessary to reposition the support to perform the intra-operative cholangiography. The tensional force applied to the peritoneal surface by the lifting rods is small, and no additional postoperative pain was observed using this procedure. CONCLUSION: These results show that using the equipment described in this study, mechanical lifting of the abdominal wall is a feasible alternative for undertaking videolaparoscopic cholecystectomy.
UNLABELLED: The abdominal wall lift (AWL) has been proposed for laparoscopic cholecystectomy to reduce hemodynamic effects caused by carbon dioxide (CO2) and high intraabdominal pressures (IAP). Data concerning effects of AWL on respiratory mechanics are scant. We therefore used a noninvasive method to evaluate whether the AWL could offset these effects. The PETCO2, airflow, and airway pressure were continuously measured in nine patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy using an AWL with minimal CO2 insufflation. We used a least-squares method to calculate maximal airway pressure (Pmax), elastance (Ers), and resistances (Rrs) of the respiratory system. After CO2 insufflation, the initiation of AWL resulted in a significantly decreased IAP (from 13 to 6 mm Hg; P < 0.001) and Rrs (from 20.6 to 17.8 cm H2O.L(-1).s(-1); P = 0.029), whereas Ers was partly modified (34.0 to 33.3 cm H2O/L; not significantly different). With AWL, we hypothesized that the diaphragm remained flat and stiff, outweighing the beneficial effect of the decrease of IAP on Ers. PETCO2 significantly increased after AWL and at the end of the procedure. We conclude that AWL partly reverses the impairment of the respiratory mechanics induced by CO2 insufflation during laparoscopic surgery. IMPLICATIONS: The abdominal wall lift (AWL), acting on the abdominal chest wall, had some benefits during laparoscopic surgery by limiting CO2 peritoneal insufflation and several side effects, such as hemodynamics. We examined the consequences of this technique on respiratory mechanics in nine patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Our findings suggest that the AWL decreases intraabdominal pressure and respiratory resistances without a significant effect on respiratory elastance.
Laparoscopic candidates with abdominal scars may have adhesions that result in visceral injury during trocar insertion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of preoperative ultrasound mapping of abdominal wall adhesions, to provide safe initial laparoscopic access, and to guide the placement of subsequent trocars, facilitating adhesolysis when necessary. Thirty consecutive patients with previous abdominal surgery who were scheduled for laparoscopy underwent a preoperative ultrasonic examination of the abdominal wall using a 7-MHz linear ultrasound probe. Spontaneous viscera slide was measured during longitudinal scanning (normal = 2-5 cm) and induced viscera slide was evaluated during longitudinal and transverse scanning (normal = 1 cm or more) over the existing abdominal scar, the peri-umbilical region, and the remaining abdominal quadrants. Sixteen (53%) of 30 patients had adhesions under their scar and only four patients (25%) had umbilical adhesions. The 12 patients without umbilical adhesions all had successful closed cannulation while open cannulation at alternate sites was successful in the four individuals with umbilical adhesions. Blind umbilical needle cannulation was successfully done in all of the remaining 14 patients (47%) without visceral injury, including three patients (21%) with upper abdominal scars who were adhesion-free elsewhere. No adhesions were encountered that had not been preoperatively predicted by ultrasound. We conclude that examination of the abdominal wall with spontaneous and induced viscera slide, using ultrasound scanning, can reliably detect intraabdominal adhesions. The examination is best done on a highly selective basis by the operating surgeon to guide the location for initial trocar insertion and determine the type of abdominal wall cannulation in those individuals with previous abdominal scars.
A myofascial island flap for abdominal wall reconstruction was based on the lumbar component of the external abdominal oblique muscle and supplied by a major neurovascular pedicle consisting of branches of the cranial abdominal artery, cranial hypogastric nerve, and a satellite vein. The flap was elevated and sutured into a 10 cm x 10 cm body wall defect in five dogs. The dogs were observed for 26 to 28 days. Abdominal wall contour and function were preserved. All dogs developed seromas, two of which became infected. One dog developed a hernia at the dorsal margin of the flap, which was repaired. At necropsy, there was no evidence of dehiscence in any of the dogs. Loose adhesions of omentum to the inner surface of the flap occurred in four dogs. Results of histologic examination confirmed the clinical impression of flap viability. The myofascial island flap has a wide range of mobility over the ventral and caudal areas of the abdomen and lateral thoracic wall. It has potential clinical use for reconstruction of defects within its arc of rotation.