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Rectal prolapse, described as a full-thickness intussusception of the rectal wall protruding externally through the anus [1], is a rare

Aim Show the benefits of temporary closure with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) mesh associated with negative pressure therapy (NPT) in the management of catastrophic abdomen. Material & methods We present the case of a 74-year-old female who underwent emergency surgery for necrotising fasciitis of the abdominal wall and tertiary peritonitis after a vaginal hysterectomy and anterior colpoplasty, where the use of NPT combined with ePTFE mesh allowed gradual fascial traction until its complete closure (after ten days), restoring the functionality of the abdominal wall. Results Temporary abdominal wall closure using NPT with ePTFE mesh allows progressive fascial traction and early closure of the abdominal wall in cases of catastrophic abdomen with low complication rate. Conclusion Techniques for temporary abdominal wall closure have led to a significant mortality reduction in cases of complex abdomen. There are several techniques with unclear evidence as to which is optimal. The combined use of NPT with ePTFE mesh is a riveting alternative as it does not adhere to bowel serosa and the risk of eventrations and fistulas are less common.

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