Abdominal compartment syndrome - the new killer

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) results from an increase in intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) within the relatively fixed confines of the abdominal cavity. This increase in abdominal pressure can have deleterious consequences on multiple organ systems and amongst the intensive care population is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Trauma victims commonly have multiple risk factors for the development of ACS, yet in the past routine measurement of IAP in intensive care patients in the UK has been variable. Recent consensus guidelines have helped to clarify the identification, diagnosis and management of patients at risk of ACS.