Estimating the optimal bladder volume for intra-abdominal pressure measurement by bladder pressure–volume curves

Intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is an important parameter and prognostic indicator of the patient's underlying physiologic status [1]. Correct IAP measurement therefore is crucial. Because measurement of IAP by an indwelling catheter in the urinary bladder is simple, minimally invasive, and reproducible, it has been forwarded as the gold standard. It was thought that the highly compliant wall of the bladder acts as a passive diaphragm, and intrinsic bladder pressure did not rise when its volume is between 50 and 100 ml. However, considerable variability in the measurement technique has been noted, not only interindividual and intraindividual but also intercentre and intracentre. Variations in IAP from -6 to +30 mmHg have been noted. The measurement technique itself is also not uniform, some authors recommend injecting 50 ml saline, others up to 200 ml. The aim of the present study is to determine the optimal bladder volume for correct IAP transmission but without the risk of 'over inflation' of the bladder and raising intrinsic intrabladder pressure (IBP).