[Intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome--basic knowledge and anesthesiological aspects].

The increase in intra-abdominal pressure may be followed by a renal, gut, respiratory and cardial dysfunction and an increase in intra-cranial pressure. The review focuses risk factors and pathophysiological consequences of intra-abdominal hypertension and of abdominal compartment syndrome. Patients with intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome are critical ill and need special anesthesiological care due to risk of pulmonary aspiration, hemodynamic disturbances and difficult mechanical ventilation.