Fasciotens for abdominal wall closure

The technology described in this briefing is fasciotens. It uses controlled traction to aid abdominal wall closure.

The innovative aspects are that the technology allows closure of complex hernias and the open abdomen, reducing the need for mesh bridging or component separation.

The intended place in therapy would be alongside standard care to aid abdominal wall closure for complex hernias and open abdomen treatment (laparostomy) in which the gut and other intraperitoneal organs are exposed.

The main points from the evidence summarised in this briefing are from 6 studies (1 prospective observational study, 2 retrospective observational studies and 3 case studies) including a total of 96 people. The evidence suggests that fasciotens may be a useful technology to aid abdominal wall closure.

Key uncertainties around the evidence are that it is non-comparative with small sample sizes. None of the studies were based in the UK and they may not be generalisable to the NHS.

Experts advised that fasciotens is a novel technology and has the potential to aid earlier closure of open abdominal wounds, reduce pain and reduce the length of hospital stay. Experts noted that current evidence is limited and agreed that multicentre comparative studies are needed to realise the potential benefits in a larger population.

The cost of fasciotens abdomen is £3,995.50 (excluding VAT) per device. The cost of fasciotens hernia is £1,760 and the fasciotens hernia carrier is £3,650. These costs are in addition to standard care costs.