Damage control surgery (DCS) and resuscitation has improved the survival of trauma patients with decompensated physiology. In recent years, the principles of DCS have been used in the treatment of patients with abdominal sepsis, despite the fact that only a minimum of evidence exists. The aim is to optimize the physiology prior to definitive surgery. This implies a primary decontaminating surgical procedure with temporary abdominal closure without restoration of the intestinal continuity and avoidance of stoma formation in order to reduce time in the operating theatre.