Endoscopic components separation for abdominal compartment syndrome

Background: Sustained intraabdominal pressures of 14 to 20 mm Hg have significant pathophysiological consequences, but there is currently no satisfactory low-morbidity procedure appropriate for intervention early in the disease process of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS). The anatomical principles of abdominal wall components separation were used to develop a percutaneous procedure that increased abdominal capacity and decreased abdominal pressure. Methods: Using a porcine model, we determined abdominal capacity changes by helium insufflation. Corn oil was then used to create an episode of sustained intraabdominal hypertension and changes in intraabdominal pressure and intestinal mucosal oxygenation were determined. Results: Endoscopic abdominal wall components separation (EACS) increased abdominal capacity by 1 L (from 0.89 ± 0.39 L to 1.95 ± 0.48 L; P <0.001). During intraabdominal hypertension, EACS decreased abdominal pressure by 31.6% (from 15.9 ± 2.1 to 11.0 ± 1.5 mm Hg; P <0.001). Intestinal PO₂ was increased by 61% (18.8 ± 11.4 to 30.3 ± 11.7; P = 0.012) Conclusions: A minimally invasive procedure (EACS) is feasible and has demonstrated effectiveness in a porcine model of ACS.