Abdominal compartment syndrome

Abstract

The abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is defined as an impairment of organ functions due to an increased intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). It becomes progressively difficult or impossible to deal with this impairment, unless IAP is reduced. Although the physiopathology of ACS has been well defined clinically and experimentally, much controversy still exists. This condition should be recognized in intensive care units. There are significant changes in hemodynamic, respiratory, renal, and metabolic functions. The clinical findings include a tightly distended abdomen, progressive oliguria in spite of adequate cardiac output, and persistent hypoxia with increased airway pressure. Surgical abdominal decompression is the only treatment with improvement of the patient’s cardiac, pulmonary, and renal function.