Secondary abdominal compartment syndrome in children with burns and trauma: a potentially lethal complication

Acute, rapid, and unimpeded increases in intra-abdominal pressure can lead to multiple organ dysfunction defined as the abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS). If this develops in the absence of obvious intra-abdominal injury, it has been termed secondary ACS (2 degrees ACS). Massive fluid resuscitation in the presence of large burns or shock can lead to 2 degrees ACS. The importance of early recognition and the need for urgent abdominal decompression have been recognized in adults; however, this has not been appreciated in the pediatric population. Medical records of four children diagnosed with 2 degrees ACS were reviewed. Secondary ACS occurred in three children with burns and in one child with a traumatic brain injury. Three children underwent decompressive laparotomy, and one underwent successful percutaneous drainage. There were two survivors. Secondary ACS may be observed in burnt or traumatized children needing large volume resuscitation. Early recognition of 2 degrees ACS by routine bladder pressure monitoring in this high-risk group of children may result in earlier decompression and a possible decrease in morbidity and mortality.