Abdominal Compartment Syndrome in Burn Patients

Abstract

Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) are consistently associated with morbidity and mortality among the critically ill or injured. Thus, avoiding or potentially treating these conditions may improve patient outcomes. Despite a large number of special publications devoted to this problem, very little attention is paid to the ACS in patients with severe burn injuries. Severe burns have been shown to be a risk factor for developing IAH. Fluid resuscitation practices used in burns management further predispose patients to increase intra-abdominal pressure. The incidence of intraabdominal hypertension in patients with severe thermal injury is, according to different authors, 57.8–82.6 %. The mortality associated with IAH in severe burns is very high once organ dysfunction occurs. The purpose of this work is to collect and analyze the problem of abdominal hypertension in burn patients, as well as to draw conclusions on the prevention of this condition and improve the results of treatment of patients with severe burn injury. Intra-abdominal hypertension is a frequent complication in severe burn patients requiring massive fluid resuscitation. Development of ACS in burn patients is associated with high mortality. Prevention, early detection and proper management may avoid this usually fatal complication. Fluid resuscitation volume is directly responsible for the development of ACS in severe burned patients. Thus, optimal fluid resuscitation can be the best prevention of IAH and ACS.