Bilateral ureteral obstruction and renal failure caused by massive retroperitoneal hematoma: is there a pelvic compartment syndrome analogous to abdominal compartment syndrome?

OBJECTIVES

To describe an intrapelvic compartment syndrome analogous to abdominal compartment syndrome and to characterize its diagnosis and treatment.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SETTING

Level I trauma center.

PATIENTS

Three patients with pelvic ring or acetabular fractures presented with bilateral ureteral obstruction, renal organ failure, and anuria due to direct compression of both ureters in the true pelvis by a massive retroperitoneal hematoma.

INTERVENTION

Surgical therapy consisted of fracture stabilization, decompression of the retroperitoneal space, and evacuation of the hematoma. Persistent isolated bleeding points were either embolized preoperatively or ligated.

RESULTS

After decompression, all three patients promptly recovered their renal organ function.

CONCLUSION

An intrapelvic compartment syndrome can be defined as bilateral ureteral obstruction and renal failure caused by a massive intrapelvic hematoma with increased retroperitoneal pressure. Diagnostic differentiation of anuria in patients with pelvic ring or acetabular fractures must include intrapelvic compartment syndrome. Early diagnosis and treatment are mandatory.