Lesson Summary

Abdominal compartment syndrome is a topic that all healthcare providers should be aware of, regardless of their practice setting. This session will cover the diagnosis and complications of abdominal compartment syndrome and intra-abdominal hypertension, as well as methods of relieving these conditions. Intra-abdominal pressure refers to the normal pressure within the abdominal cavity, which changes with the respiratory cycle. Intra-abdominal hypertension is classified as a pressure equal to or greater than 12 mmHg, while abdominal compartment syndrome is a pressure greater than 20 mmHg, resulting in organ dysfunction and failure. Abdominal perfusion pressure, similar to cerebral perfusion pressure, is an important indicator of organ perfusion within the abdominal cavity. It is calculated as mean arterial pressure minus intra-abdominal pressure, and should ideally be at least 60 mmHg. Abdominal compartment syndrome can be primary, resulting from direct abdominal injury, or secondary, commonly associated with medical conditions such as acute pancreatitis or sepsis. This condition affects not only abdominal organs, but also other organs outside of the abdominal cavity.