Abdominal Wall Closure in Intestinal and Multivisceral Transplantation

Failure to close the abdomen after intestinal or multivisceral transplantation (Tx) remains a frequently occurring problem. Two attractive reconstruction methods, especially in large abdominal wall defects, are full-thickness abdominal wall vascularized composite allograft (AW-VCA) and nonvascularized rectus fascia (NVRF) Tx. This review compares surgical technique, immunology, integration, clinical experience, and indications of both techniques. In AW-VCA Tx, vascular anastomosis is required and the graft undergoes hypotrophy post-Tx. Furthermore, it has immunologic benefits and good clinical outcome. NVRF Tx is an easy technique without the need for vascular anastomosis. Moreover, a rapid integration and neovascularization occurs with excellent clinical outcome.

Source: Gastroenterology Clinics of North America - January 25, 2024 Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Ewout Muylle, Nele Van De Winkel, Ina Hennion, Antoine Dubois, Lieven Thorrez, Nathalie P. Deferm, Jacques Pirenne, Laurens J. Ceulemans Source Type: research