Abstract:
Intra-abdominal hypertension, abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) and poly-compartment syndrome are serious clinical problems. The
key is early recognition of at risk patients so that preventative measures may be implemented. The concepts of controlled fluid resuscitation,
surveillance and prophylactic operative decompression with temporary abdominal closure (TAC) are central to prevention of the events
leading to multiple organ dysfunction. Where ACS develops, therapeutic operative decompression and TAC is the management of choice.
