Recent clinical studies demonstrate that intra
abdominal hypertension (IAH, defined as an IAP>12 mmHg) and
abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) are common in intensive
care patients:
- IAH occurs in more than 50% of all surgical and medical ICU
patients (ref. 1)
- IAH is associated with significantly increased morbidity and
mortality (ref. 2)
- IAH adversely affects all organs (ref. 3)
- IAH causes a covert elevation of CVP, PAOP, and ICP (ref.
4)
Ref. 1:
Manu LNG Malbrain et al: Prevalence of
intra-abdominal hypertension in critically ill patients:
A multicentre epidemiological study. ICM 2004, 30 pg.
822-9.
Ref. 2:
Manu LNG Malbrain et al: Incidence and prognosis of
Intraabdominal hypertension in a mixed population of critically
ill patients: A multicentre epidemiological study. CCM
2005 Vol. 33, No. 2.
Ref. 3:
Manu LNG Malbrain: Is it wise not to think about intraabdominal
hypertension in the ICU? Curr Opin Crit Care 2004; 10:132-145.
Ref. 4:
Cheatham ML et al: Preload assessment in patients with
an open abdomen. J Trauma 1999; 46: 16-22.
The World Society On Abdominal Compartment Syndrome (www.wsacs.org)
has recognized the clinical importance of IAP monitoring, and
the organisation has also suggested a number of treatment options
aimed at normalizing IAP. Please visit their web site, or have
a look at our Teaching Material
Holtech Medical - Soebakken 22 - 2920 Charlottenlund - Denmark