Fasciotens® for abdominal wall closure: current evidence and clinical perspectives.

PURPOSE: Management of open abdomen (OA) and complex ventral hernias remains associated with high morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and substantial healthcare costs. Vertical fascial traction has emerged as a novel approach aimed at facilitating early primary fascial closure. This study provides a narrative review and multidimensional overview of the available evidence regarding the Fasciotens® device, focusing on clinical outcomes, safety, economic considerations, and organizational aspects.

METHODS

A narrative systematic literature review was performed to identify studies evaluating the use of Fasciotens® in adult patients with open abdomen or complex ventral hernias. Clinical, economic, organizational, and ethical domains were assessed.

RESULTS

Available evidence, primarily derived from observational studies and case series, suggests that the use of Fasciotens® is associated with high rates of primary fascial closure, shorter time to closure, and reductions in intra‑abdominal pressure. Device‑related adverse events appear to be infrequent and mainly limited to minor skin‑related complications. Preliminary economic considerations indicate that earlier closure and avoidance of complex reconstructive procedures may reduce operative time, intensive care unit stay, and overall hospital resource utilization.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence supports the clinical feasibility and potential value of Fasciotens® as an adjunctive technology for the management of open abdomen and complex ventral hernias. However, the available data are limited by small sample sizes and non‑comparative study designs. Further prospective and comparative studies are needed to better define its role within standardized treatment pathways.