title: Patient populations at risk for intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome.
abstract: Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) are critical care conditions with significant morbidity and mortality. The surgical measure to treat ACS (decompressive laparotomy) is hazardous and results in an open abdomen with potential major complications  such as fistulas, abscesses, and large ventral hernias. As a result of the complicated natural history of IAH/ACS as well as significant morbidity and mortality, prevention is a logical approach to this complex problem. Knowledge of the patient populations at high risk for developing IAH/ACS  is crucial. The aim of this review is to discuss the high-risk populations for acute IAH/ACS among surgical patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Traumatology, John Hunter Hospital and University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2130, Australia. Zsolt.Balogh@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au
authors.forename: Zsolt J
authors.initials: ZJ
authors.lastname: Balogh
authors.forename: Ari
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Leppäniemi
mesh_terms: D002056:Burns / Q000150:complications; D004066:Digestive System Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D059325:Intra-Abdominal Hypertension / Q000209:etiology*; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000150:complications*