Post-operative Use of Abdominal Binders: Bound to Tradition?

Introduction: An abdominal binder is an elastic or non-elastic belt applied to the abdomen in post-operative patients with abdominal surgery. These provide support and splintage to the operative wound, reducing incision site pain. The present work aims to investigate the institutional practices regarding the use of abdominal binders, gain insight into the expected benefits that these practices are targeted to achieve, and determine if current practices are in accordance with the available evidence.