Abdominal compartment syndrome due to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) improves the outcome of refractory cardiogenic shock. Few studies in adult populations have specifically addressed the complications of ECMO. Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) has been previously described in the pediatric literature, but it has never been directly attributed to ECMO alone. The authors describe two cases of ACS directly induced by venoarterial ECMO. In one case, decompressive laparotomy restored an adequate hemodynamic status. The authors hypothesize that ECMO contributed to ACS by inducing massive fluid overload and subsequent tense ascites. In conclusion, when ECMO dysfunction or hemodynamic impairment occurs, ACS should be considered and a decompressive laparotomy should be performed.