Ventilation failure after endotracheal intubation in an infant with abdominal compartment syndrome: A case report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric critical care medicine
• Surgical emergencies

Background:

• Intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) represent escalating stages of increased intra-abdominal pressure.
• These conditions pose significant risks, including respiratory and circulatory dysfunction, and are linked to high pediatric mortality rates.

Observation:

• An infant diagnosed with ACS required an emergency exploratory laparotomy.
• Following anesthesia induction and intubation, the patient experienced ventilation failure despite interventions.
• Ventilation was successfully restored only after urgent abdominal decompression performed by the surgical team.

Findings:

• Abdominal decompression is the definitive treatment for respiratory and circulatory failure in pediatric ACS.
• Timely surgical intervention is crucial for managing ventilation failure in infants with ACS.

Implications:

• This case highlights the critical role of prompt abdominal decompression in stabilizing pediatric patients with ACS.
• Effective management strategies for ACS are essential to improve outcomes and reduce mortality in critically ill children.
• Early recognition and surgical intervention can prevent irreversible complications associated with elevated intra-abdominal pressure.