Abdominal compartment syndrome in gynecologic surgery

Background: Abdominal compartment syndrome is a rare condition in which increased intra-abdominal pressure adversely affects perfusion and viability of the viscera, and the cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal systems. The syndrome follows acute abdominal events such as abdominal trauma, intraperitoneal hemorrhage, or intra-abdominal infection.Cases: Two women who had abdominal hysterectomies postoperatively developed clinical features of multisystem failure with markedly elevated intra-abdominal pressures. The women, one with intra-abdominal infection and diffuse intestinal edema and one with intra-abdominal hemorrhage, were diagnosed by clinical exam and intravesical pressure measurements. Both had follow-up exploration and temporary placement of the small bowel and colon into an intestinal bag until adequate resuscitation was achieved.Conclusion: Abdominal compartment syndrome is a rare complication in gynecology that can be diagnosed early and decompressed promptly. Copyright (C) 1999 The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.