Van Damme L, et al. - Researchers performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 articles reporting the impact of decompressive laparotomy on intra-abdominal pressure and organ function in critically ill adult and pediatric patients with abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS), with a special emphasis on hemodynamic, respiratory, and kidney function and outcome. Primary ACS was present in 49.7% of 286 patients who were included. A significantly lower intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) was observed following decompressive laparotomy. Moreover, this treatment approach had beneficial effects on hemodynamic, respiratory, and renal parameters. However, a high mortality was evident after decompressive laparotomy in both adults and children.