The terms intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome have sometimes been used interchangeably. However, it is important to recognize there is a distinction between these entities. Intra-abdominal hypertension exists when intra-abdominal pressure exceeds a measured numeric parameter. This parameter has generally been set at between 20 and 25 mm Hg. Abdominal compartment syndrome exists when intra-abdominal hypertension is accompanied by manifestations of organ dysfunction, with reversal of these pathophysiologic changes upon abdominal decompression. These include the pulmonary, cardiovascular, renal, splanchnic, musculoskeletal/ integumentary (abdominal wall), and central nervous system.

The exact incidence of abdominal compartment syndrome is yet to be established, but it is clearly increased in certain population groups. These include patients with the following:

In one prospective series of 145 patients who were identified as being at risk for development of the abdominal compartment syndrome, the reported incidence was 14%. The incidence following primary closure after repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm was reported in one series as 4%.

In the trauma population, the group that is especially at risk includes those patients undergoing abbreviated or “damage control”
laparotomy, especially with intra-abdominal packing. It must be noted that having an open abdomen does not necessarily preclude the diagnosis of intra-abdominal hypertension or abdominal compartment syndrome, particularly where intra-abdominal packing has been used.