Open Abdomen during Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation is a Safe and Effective Treatment for Abdominal Compartment Syndrome

Retrospective study of 81 pediatric respiratory ECMO patients demonstrates that decompressive laparotomy with open abdomen for abdominal compartment syndrome does not increase bleeding risk or mortality compared to closed abdomen patients. Findings challenge traditional contraindications and support selective use of open abdomen techniques during ECMO support.