Abdominal compartment syndrome in burns patients: Introduction of an evidence-based management guideline and algorithm

Abstract

Abdominal compartment syndrome is a serious potential complication of burn injury, and carries high morbidity and mortality. Although there are generalised published guidelines on managing the condition, to date no management algorithm has yet been published tailored specifically to the burn injury patient. We set out to examine the literature on the subject in order to produce an evidence based management guideline, with the aim of improving outcomes for these patients. The guideline covers early detection and assessment of the condition as well as optimum medical, surgical and postoperative management. We believe that this guideline provides a much needed benchmark for managing burns patients with raised intra-abdominal pressure, as well as providing a template for further research and improvements in care. (

Intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome

“…Severe burn patients remain another category of patients in whom IAH has been confirmed as a frequent and important complication, associated with morbidity and mortality. Strong et al [4] developed guidelines for the management of IAH and ACS aimed at this specific subgroup.…”

“…Several recent reviews have focused on the current approach to patients with IAH and ACS [2,3 ▪▪ ,4], all of them recognizing the need for more research on many aspects of IAH and ACS. Some highlighted the variation in definitions used, frequency and duration of IAP measurement and reporting of outcomes [5 ▪ ].…”