Introduction/Background Laparotomy is a common procedure in patients with extended carcinomatosis disease. Burst abdomen is an uncommon complication in midline laparotomies, reported in 0.2% to 5% 1 after elective surgery and 8.5% to 45% 2 after emergency surgery. This scenario is associated with increased morbidity 3 and mortality rates up to 30%.4

Methodology We report a 71 y/0 female patient with ovarian origin carcinomatosis (carcinosarcoma) underwent interval cytoreduction surgery. She was readmitted after hypoproteinemia, sarcopenia, and deterioration of the general condition where there is evidence of severe dehiscence of the laparotomy wound presenting a burst abdomen.

Results We show a conservative management option using negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) and partial closure finally achieving total closure of the abdominal wall.

Conclusion Burst abdomen is a postoperative complication associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The risk factors for burst abdomen are patient- and surgery-related. The management of this complication is a relatively unexplored area within the field of surgery. In these scenarios NPWT is a tool to be considered for its resolution.