[Influence of volume increase on intra-abdominal pressure].

The aim of this review is to summarize the physiological and pathological aspects of the relationship between volume and intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). A capillary leak following trauma or inflammation can induce a volume shift into the abdomen. An increase of the IAP depends on the abdominal compliance, which is reduced by increases in intra-abdominal volume and pressure as well as by an upright body position and obesity. A pathological increase of IAP (>12 mmHg) depends on the amount and type of resuscitation volume and is known to cause increased morbidity und mortality. Colloids or hypertensive solutions can reduce IAP however, current data are still insufficient. Therapeutic options are IAP monitoring and decompression.