The relationship between positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) in mechanically ventilated patients: A prospective observational study

Positive end-expiratory pressure is a crucial mechanical breathing parameter. Intra-abdominal hypertension is well defined as a sustained increase in the intra-abdominal pressure ≥12 mmHg. There are still controversies about mechanical ventilation's effect and use of positive end-expiratory pressure on intra-abdominal pressure. We aimed to delineate the relationship between positive end-expiratory pressure and intra-abdominal pressure in mechanically ventilated patients admitted to the intensive care units of a large tertiary hospital in Upper Egypt. This study was a prospective observational study. The study was conducted at a university hospital from October 2023 to February 2024. The enrolled adult patients were allocated into two groups based on their positive end-expiratory pressure: group I, low pressure (