Decompressive laparotomy for abdominal compartment syndrome in patient on extracorporeal life support: A first survival case among adults with literature review

Abstract

Here, we report a case of successful treatment for a patient with abdominal compartment syndrome who was on venoarterial extracorporeal life support. A 33-year-old man visited the emergency room with cardiac arrest. Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed, and massive volume infusion was needed to maintain adequate perfusion pressure. After 6 h, his abdomen was distended, and venous drain was decreased. His bladder pressure was more than 25 mm Hg. Abdominal compartment syndrome was suspected, and prompt decompressive laparotomy was performed to restore venous drain, resulting in stabilization hemodynamically. The patient made a full recovery. He was discharged after implantation of internal cardiac defibrillator.