Abdominal Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome is classically considered a complication of a musculoskeletal injury. Recent research has confirmed the abdomen as a potential compartment with the capability to cause life-threatening local and systemic manifestations. Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is precipitated by an acute increase in abdominal contents volume with resulting intraabdominal hypertension. Presenting signs of Abdominal compartment syndrome include a firm tense abdomen, increased peak inspiratory pressures, and oliguria, all of which improve after abdominal decompression. Patients at risk for Abdominal compartment syndrome include trauma (blunt or open), retroperitoneal hemorrhage, massive fluid resuscitation, pancreatitis, pneumoperitoneum, and neoplasm. Surgical decompression is the treatment of choice. The perianesthesia nurse plays a critical role in the team managing a patient at risk for abdominal compartment syndrome through intraabdominal pressure monitoring, wound care, and end organ perfusion support.