[Synthesis of large wounds of the body wall with rubber elastic band]. / Síntese de grandes feridas da parede corpórea com tira elástica de borracha.

BACKGROUND: The large wounds of the body wall, due to traumas, removal of tumors or prolonged laparostomies are a difficult surgical challenge with complex treatment. This paper presents the efficacy of the closure of large surgical wounds using rubber elastic bands. METHODS: One or two circular rubber elastic bands were sutured under mean tension at the opposite edges of 22 large wounds located in different body sites. These rubber strips were replaced when they were broken or re-fixed when they have lost their tension until the complete closure of the wounds. RESULTS: Complete closure was achieved without any other surgical procedure or device in 21 wounds and one wound reduced its dimensions. No major complication due to this treatment was verified. CONCLUSION: The synthesis of large wounds with rubber elastic bands kept under mean tension is a simple, efficacious and inexpensive surgical option that may be useful for treatment in several circumstances.