Table 1.

Definition of terms related to open abdomen management (adapted from Zarzaur et al)⁴

Term	Definition
Open abdomen	Any abdomen in which definitive fascial closure cannot be achieved
Temporary abdominal closure	Any method used to control the egress of abdominal contents without closure of the abdominal wall fascia
Definitive (primary) fascial closure	Fascia-to-fascia closure of abdominal defect with or without prosthetic repair material within the initial hospitalisation
Planned ventral hernia	An open abdominal wound that is allowed to granulate and covered with a skin graft before patient discharge with the intention to perform definitive repair in 6–12 months or an abdomen in which deliberate skin-only closure is performed