Anatomical, physiological, and logistical indications for the open abdomen: a proposal for a new classification system

A systematic approach to the appropriate use of the open abdomen strategy has not been described. We propose three fundamental reasons for the use of this strategy, anatomical, physiological and logistical. Anatomical reasons pertain to the inability to bring the fascial edges together including soft tissue defects. Physiological reasons relate to features of systemic dysfunction. Logistical reasons involve any anticipated abdominal re-intervention while preserving fascia. These categories occur either as a single reason or in any combination