PubMed · 9563421
Abdominal compartment syndrome.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is a newly appreciated and potentially fatal consequence of increased intra-abdominal pressure. It can be due to either trauma or surgery, as well as numerous medical conditions. Prolonged, unrelieved elevation of intra-abdominal pressure can produce pulmonary compromise, renal impairment, cardiac failure, shock, and death. A high index of suspicion is imperative. Measurement of the intravesical pressure provides a urometric window for detecting and monitoring this condition. CONCLUSIONS: Reopening the abdominal incision (decompressive celiotomy) has proven a life-saving intervention. Use of delayed wound closure (staged celiotomy) may prevent development of this condition in high-risk surgical patients. It is urgent that all physicians, and surgeons in particular, be alerted to this potentially lethal complication.
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R A Watson, T R Howdieshell. 1998. Abdominal compartment syndrome.. https://doi.org/10.1097/00007611-199804000-00002
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