Abdominal compartment syndrome

Abstract

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is defined as an organ dysfunction caused by intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH). Both are common complications in severe patients admitted to intensive care units. The associated clinical manifestations are usually non-specific and, therefore, such entities should be suspected in critical patients with risk factors. The diagnosis of IAH is made by indirectly measuring intrabdominal pres-sure, usually by means of a urinary catheter. Treatment consists of supportive measures and, in some cases, surgical abdominal decompression. In this review the physiopathology of both entities is described, as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic approach.