Abdominal compartment syndrome in burns patients: Introduction of an evidence-based management guideline and algorithm

Effect of Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) versus 5% albumin solution on intra-abdominal pressure in severe burn patients: A prospective randomized clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Massive burn patients are at risk of developing intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) as a complication of resuscitation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) versus 5% albumin solution on intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) in massive burn patients.

METHODS

This was a prospective randomized clinical trial carried on at Ain Shams University (ASU) burn unit for 2 years. Where adult patients with burns more than 20% of TBSA were equally randomized into HES group or albumin group.

RESULTS

Fifty-two patients were equally randomized into 2 groups. We found no difference in age, sex, weight, type of burn, and TBSA between the two groups. The mean total resuscitation fluid volume in the first 48 h was 213 ml/kg and 206.2 ml/kg for the HES group and the albumin group respectively (p = 0.674). IAP statistically was non-significantly higher in the HES group. We found no statistical difference between the two groups as regards the renal function tests.

CONCLUSION

Both HES and 5% albumin solution are effective and safe colloids for burn resuscitation. As regards the IAP, it seems that both 5% albumin and HES have comparable effect regarding IAH in severely burn patients. Both HES and 5% albumin were partially equal in terms of renal involvement and vital data stability.

Intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) has been acknowledged as an important contributor to organ dysfunction in critically ill patients, both in surgical and medical conditions. As our understanding of the pathophysiology evolves, risk factors are better recognized, preventive measures can now be implemented and therapeutic interventions tailored to the physiology of the patient. In the current review, we want to highlight developing insights in the epidemiology and treatment of patients with IAH and ACS.

RECENT FINDINGS

The impact of IAH and ACS on kidney function and other outcomes continues to draw attention in recent studies. New methods for IAP measurement are under development, and the search for biomarkers to detect IAH or ACS continues. In conditions wherein IAH and ACS are common, recent studies allow better prevention and treatment of these conditions, based on the contemporary ICU management consisting of IAP measurement, judicious fluid resuscitation and decompressive laparotomy where necessary. Surgical treatment options including open abdomen therapy continue to be improved with demonstrable impact on outcomes.

SUMMARY

In this manuscript, we provide an overview of recent insights and developments in the epidemiology, monitoring and treatment of patients with IAH and/or ACS.