Objective: To study the effect of hemodialysis on intra-abdominal pressure.
Methods: Five patients admitted between July and November of 2003 were evaluated in the intensive care unit. Intra-abdominal pressure was measured before and after hemodialysis, maintaining the ventilatory parameters except for PEEP (positive-end expiratory pressure).
Results: Intra-abdominal pressure was significantly reduced by hemodialysis in all the 5 patients.
Conclusion: Hemodialysis significantly reduced intra-abdominal pressure in the 5 patients, an effect which could have influence over other organic systems. This reduction is related to the weight variation before and after hemodialysis, as well as to the loss of volume caused by this procedure.