Absorbable mesh and topical negative pressure therapy for closure of abdominal dehiscence with exposed bowel.

Permacol mesh is a porcine dermis-derived biomaterial used for the repair of abdominal incisional and inguinal hernia. It has been found to be a safe and effective alternative to non-absorbable mesh for application over exposed bowel. This mesh has also been successfully applied over contaminated abdominal wound beds and around stomas. Topical negative pressure therapy has been used for the management of wound complications after surgical implantation of Permacol mesh. We describe our experience with the combined use of Permacol mesh and simultaneous application of topical negative pressure therapy to aid wound contraction and granulation in a patient with abdominal dehiscence and exposed bowel.