Abdominal Compartment Syndrome in Children: Perioperative Concerns and Considerations ACS in Children

Abdominal compartment syndrome describes new organ dysfunction associated with an acute increase in intra-abdominal pressure.While this condition is well described in adults, this syndrome is underappreciated in children and carries a high mortality rate.The pathophysiology of abdominal compartment syndrome results in deleterious effects on multiple organs systems.However, monitoring for the development of abdominal compartment syndrome remains controversial.Optimal treatment is predicated on prompt recognition of this syndrome and emergent abdominal decompression.Specific considerations of the pathophysiology of abdominal compartment syndrome have important clinical implications for anesthesia providers in the pre, intra and post-operative periods.In this article, we present a review of current literature on this important topic with practical considerations for anesthetic management of these complex patients.