The abdominal compartment syndrome.
The abdominal compartment syndrome refers to the alterations in respiratory mechanics, hemodynamic parameters and renal function that occur as a result of a sustained increase in intra-abdominal pressure. The syndrome may follow a diverse series of insults, including laparotomy for severe abdominal trauma, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm and intra-abdominal infection. Diagnosis depends on recognizing the clinical picture in patients at risk, followed by an objective measurement of intra-abdominal pressure. Successful management may require abdominal decompression with temporary abdominal closure. Despite urgent decompression, the death rate is high because of the severity of the patients' underlying illness.
Nathens
A B
AB
Department of Surgery, Sunnybrook Health Science Centre, Toronto, Ont.
Brenneman
F D
FD
Boulanger
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BR
D000005:Abdomen; D003161:Compartment Syndromes / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D019299:Decompression, Surgical; D006801:Humans