Use of Marlex mesh in acute loss of the abdominal wall due to infection.

Closure of wounds of the abdomen with a minimal amount of foreign material is still the preferred method. However, in those instances in which loss of tissue is too great to effect closure or in which closure will place the suture line under tension, the use of a synthetic plastic mesh is an effective alternative. As described, the technique avoids the risks of further necrosis of the tissue, infection and dehiscence. In those instances of extensive loss of tissue, it is frequently the only practical method available to reconstruct the abdominal wall.