Gastrointestinal complications in shock

The gut organs are vulnerable to injury during shock because of ischemia and reperfusion of the microcirculation. These injuries result in upper GI hemorrhage, liver dysfunction, and pancreatic and mesenteric necrosis. Toxic mediators, released via lymph drainage and with reperfusion, contribute to the failure of other organs and the development of refractory shock. Until single organ perfusion can be measured, the primary goal of care is to maintain systemic perfusion. Secondary goals are to decrease hydrogen ion accumulation, minimize pancreatic stimulation, remove hepatotoxic agents, and reduce blood bacteria. Gut ischemia is simply one piece of the puzzle in the multiple organ response to reduced systemic oxygenation and perfusion that characterizes the clinical syndrome of shock.