[Physical and neuropsychological sequelae after intensive therapy]

Area of Science:

• Critical care medicine
• Intensive care unit (ICU) outcomes
• Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS)

Context:

• Historically, critical care focused on immediate survival, neglecting long-term patient sequelae.
• Physical and neuropsychological dysfunctions post-critical illness are increasingly recognized.
• Underreporting of these common, potentially permanent complications exists.

Purpose:

• To highlight the prevalence and impact of long-term sequelae after acute critical care.
• To emphasize the need for research into effective treatment and rehabilitation strategies.
• To shift focus towards comprehensive patient recovery and quality of life.

Summary:

• Acute critical illness frequently leads to common, underestimated physical and neuropsychological dysfunctions.
• These sequelae can be permanent and significantly reduce a patient's quality of life.
• Current evidence suggests a substantial burden of post-intensive care morbidities.

Impact:

• Increased awareness of post-critical care impairments is essential for patient management.
• Further investigation into rehabilitation therapies may improve long-term outcomes.
• A paradigm shift towards prioritizing long-term recovery is needed in critical care practice.