Reconstruction of Midline Abdominal Wall Defect with Muscle Partition

Background: Closure of large abdominal-wall defects with mesh implantation may associate with complications including infection, seroma formation, bowel erosion, enterocutaneous fistula and loss of compliance of abdominal wall. Materials and Methods: Between 1997 and 2007, six patients underwent muscle partition for the reconstruction of large abdominal-wall defect ranging from 200 (10×20) cm^2 to 450(15×30) cm^2 in our institution. Results: The post-operative courses were smooth without major complications except one patient expired due to septic shock related to repeat disruptions of intestinal anastomosis. No hernia occurred through repaired abdomen at 15 months follow-up. Conclusion: Preoperative evaluation including predisposing factors, nutrition status and wound bed condition is important. After well preparing, the management of large abdominalwall defect with muscle partition could achieve safe and successful functional outcomes.