ACUTE ABDOMEN IN ICU PATIENTS

Abstract

Acute abdominal problems• are . not infrequent among ICU patients. The physician must maintain a high level of suspicion that an abdominal problem is present in the face of deteriorating critically ill case. History • and physical examination must be used to guide the use of more invasive and expensive tests.. Laboratory tests are usually adjunctive and rarely diagnostic. Radiographic procedures, especially ultrasound and CT scans, when appropriately used, can be helpful. Surgical consultation should be obtained early in a disease course, for treatment frequently requires surgical intervention. Only by using constant vigilance can critical care practitioners guide their patients through the multiple perturbations acute abdominal problems can create.•