Abdominal compartment syndrome

Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) associated with organ dysfunction define s the abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS). Elevated intra-abdominal pressu re (IAP) adversely impacts pulmonary, cardiovascular, renal, splanchnic, mu sculoskeletal/integumentary, and central nervous system physiology. The com bination of IAH and disordered physiology results in a clinical syndrome wi th significant morbidity and mortality. The onset of the ACS requires promp t recognition and appropriately timed and staged intervention in order to o ptimize outcome. The history, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and m anagement of this disorder is outlined.