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Intermediate Technical IVT

Bogotá bag

Pronunciation: bo-go-TAH bag

A sterile IV bag sutured to fascia for temporary abdominal closure when primary repair is impossible.

Full Definition

A temporary abdominal closure technique using a large sterile intravenous fluid bag sutured to the fascial edges of an open abdomen. Named after surgeons in Bogotá, Colombia, who popularized this cost-effective method during periods of high trauma volume. The technique prevents visceral desiccation and contamination while allowing for abdominal re-exploration and gradual fascial closure as swelling subsides. It has largely been superseded by more sophisticated vacuum-assisted closure systems but remains valuable in resource-limited settings.

Usage

Usage note: Capitalize 'Bogotá' as it refers to the Colombian city; the term is sometimes written as 'Bogota bag' without the accent.

In Context

  • "Due to massive bowel edema, a Bogotá bag was placed for temporary abdominal closure." — operative report
  • "The Bogotá bag allowed serial abdominal examinations while preventing evisceration." — case report

Also known as

IV bag closure plastic bag closure

Contrasted with

primary fascial closure definitive closure

Don't confuse with

VAC therapy mesh closure

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