Article Sections

Introduction

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is a life-threatening condition characterized by elevated intraabdominal pressure (IAP) that adversely affects organ function both inside and outside the abdominal cavity.  It typically occurs in critically ill patients and can be difficult to diagnose.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiological hallmark of ACS is sustained elevated IAP (typically >20-25 mm Hg) accompanied by new-onset organ dysfunction.  IAP refers to the pressure within the abdominal cavity, which is normally maintained within a narrow range (0-5 mm Hg) to accommodate the abdominal contents, including organs, fluid, and gas.

IAP can increase due to conditions directly affecting the abdominopelvic region (eg, trauma, hemoperitoneum, pancreatitis, abdominal surgery) or as a result of conditions outside the abdominal cavity (eg, sepsis, severe burns) that require massive fluid resuscitation and cause large volume third-spacing of fluids.

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