Table of contents
Expand All Topics
Abdominal compartment syndrome
Background
Overview
Definition
Abdominal compartment syndrome is a critical condition characterized by elevated intra-abdominal pressure that leads to multi-system organ dysfunction. It is defined as an intra-abdominal pressure > 20 mmHg with evidence of organ failure.
1
2
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology involves a rapid increase in intra-abdominal pressure due to factors such as internal bleeding, inflammation, or fluid accumulation within the abdominal cavity. This elevated pressure can impede blood flow and oxygen delivery to the organs, leading to ischemia and organ dysfunction.
2
Epidemiology
The epidemiology of abdominal compartment syndrome varies according to the patient population. It is commonly seen in critically ill patients, particularly those in the ICU.
1
Disease course
Clinically, abdominal compartment syndrome presents with a firm, tense abdomen, increased peak inspiratory pressures, and oliguria, all of which improve after abdominal decompression.
3
Prognosis and risk of recurrence
The prognosis is significantly influenced by early recognition and intervention. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications and an increased mortality rate.
4
Guidelines
Key sources
The following summarized guidelines for the evaluation and management of abdominal compartment syndrome are prepared by our editorial team based on guidelines from the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES 2018), the European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS 2017), the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM 2017), and the World Society of the Abdominal Compartment Syndrome (WSACS 2013).
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8