Abbreviated laparotomy in patients with hemorrhagic shock

Five cases of severe hemorrhagic shock of abdominal origin treated with abbreviated laparotomy due to the onset of hypothermia, acidosis and consumption coagulopathy are described. The abdomen was temporarily closed and the patients were transferred to these Intensive Therapy Unit for the treatment correction of these disorders. Patients were then re-operated on 30 hours after the reestablishment of vital functions. Clinical complications of hemorrhagic shock, in which the "Abbreviated Laparotomy" technique is applicable, are presented.