Botulinum Toxin Injection in the Treatment of Open Abdomen

Botulinum Toxin Injection in the Treatment of Open Abdomen

Botulinum toxin has been widely approved and utilized in the treatment of complex abdominal wall hernias. Botulinum toxin has been only randomly studied in the treatment of open abdomen.

30 consecutive patients who have open abdomen for any indication, will have 300 IU botulinum toxin injected in three spots in either sides of the abdomen within 72 hours of the start of open abdomen. The hypothesis is botulinum toxin relaxes abdominal wall musculature to ensure better and faster closure of the open abdomen.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Open abdomen

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous incisional hernia in midline
• Patient is not in active treatment