Intra abdominal hypertension and the abdominal compartment syndrome

SummaryThe patho-physiological significance of raised intra-abdominal pressure, known as Intra Abdominal Hypertension, with subsequent organ dysfunction and failure, known as Abdominal Compartment Syndrome, has recently been demonstrated to occur relatively frequently in mixed populations of critically ill patients. Clinical diagnosis is unreliable, so routine measurement of intra abdominal pressure should be undertaken, particularly in specific groups of patients known to be at high risk. Whilst definitive therapy requires surgical abdominal decompression, less invasive therapies have been investigated and, if initiated early, may help to minimise progression of the condition. Clearly defined indications for surgical intervention remain elusive however and require prospective investigation. This review summarises the patho-physiology of the syndrome, its diagnosis and surveillance, and current management strategies, both medical and surgical.