THE ABDOMINAL COMPARTMENT SYNDROME

The abdominal compartment syndrome refers to the alterations in respir atory mechanics, hemodynamic parameters and renal function that occur as a result of a sustained increase in intra-abdominal pressure. The s yndrome may follow a diverse series of insults, including laparotomy f or severe abdominal trauma, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm and int ra-abdominal infection. Diagnosis depends on recognizing the clinical picture in patients at risk, followed by an objective measurement intr a-abdominal pressure, Successful management may require abdominal deco mpression with temporary abdominal closure. Despite urgent decompressi on, the death rate is high because of the severity of the patients' un derlying illness.