Incidence, Risk Factors, and Prognosis of Intra-Abdominal Hypertension in Critically Ill Children: A Prospective Epidemiological Study

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Methods: Prospective cohort study from January 2011 to January 2013. All children consecutively admitted to the PICU, staying more than 24 hours and requiring bladder catheterization, were included in the study. On admission, demographic data and risk factors for IAH were studied. The intra-abdominal pressure was measured every 6 hours through a bladder catheter until discharge, death, or removal of the catheter. Results: Of the 175 patients, 22 (12.6%) had IAH and 7 (4%) had abdominal compartment syndrome during the intensive care unit (ICU) stay. The independent risk factors associated with IAH were the presence of abdominal distension (odds ratio [OR] 7.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.6-19.9; P