Massive parietal defect with multiple enteroatmospheric fistulae after thermal injury abdomen in a metal industry accident: Case report of a rare survivor

Abstract

In industrial foundries, raw metal is heated almost up to its melting point and then passed through the rolling mill to mould it into a desired shape. Contact with hot machinery or the hot metal can cause severe deep burns. When such thermal injury involves the abdominal wall, complex bowel injury can occur, leading to life-threatening abdominal sepsis. We report successful management of a patient with abdominal wall defect and multiple open fistulae. Severe thermal injury of the anterior abdominal wall may be associated with latent bowel injuries and abdominal compartment syndrome. A low threshold for surgery and re-look surgery may prevent complications.