Abdominal Compartment Syndrome Secondary to Constipation in an Adult Patient With Cerebral Palsy

The majority of patients with constipation can often be treated conservatively with laxatives, suppositories, or enemas in mild cases. However, endoscopic decompression or surgical intervention may be required in some instances. Abdominal compartment syndrome as a result of constipation is rarely seen in the literature. We report a case of faecal impaction, which led to abdominal compartment syndrome in an adult patient with cerebral palsy. With increasing life expectancy, such cases may be increasingly encountered in the adult population. Severe complications of constipation should not be overlooked, especially in this at-risk population. Early recognition of abdominal compartment syndrome is key in its management.