Acta Clin Belg
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There has been an exponentially increasing interest in intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH). The intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) markedly affects the function of the respiratory system. ⋯ Increased IAP markedly affects respiratory function in such a way that it has an impact on daily clinical practise.
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Abdominal compartment syndrome and intra-abdominal hypertension are frequently associated with peritonitis. The aim of this study is to establish the relationship between intra-abdominal hypertension and intra-abdominal sepsis especially in critically ill patients. ⋯ Intra-abdominal pressure monitoring can be valuable in critically ill patients with suspicion of persisting intra-abdominal sepsis after surgical peritonitis treatment.
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Current treatment of the abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is based on consensus definitions but several questions regarding fluid regime or critical level of intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH)) remain unsolved. It is questionable whether these issues can be addressed in prospective randomized trials in the near future. This review aimed to summarize current animal models and to outline requirements for the best model. ⋯ In contrast to IAH or pneumoperitoneum for surgical exposure, ACS in an animal may be stated if an artificially increased IAP leads to circulatory, respiratory and renal insufficiency. A next step in animal research would be the development of a "pathological" model in which haemorrhage or systemic inflammation together with resuscitation lead to abdominal fluid accumulation and increased intra-abdominal pressure.