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Gastrointestinal motility problems in critical care: a clinical perspective
Abimbola Adike1, Eamonn M M Quigley
1Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA.
Journal of Digestive Diseases
|March 29, 2014
Summary
Gastrointestinal motility disorders are frequent in intensive care units (ICUs), increasing patient mortality and length of stay. Key risk factors include sepsis, mechanical ventilation, and certain medications.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Intensive care units (ICUs) are seeing increased patient numbers due to advances in surgery, anesthesia, and critical care.
- Gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorders are prevalent in ICUs and are linked to higher mortality and prolonged hospital stays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common gastrointestinal motility disorders in intensive care unit patients.
- To identify risk factors associated with GI motor dysfunction in the ICU setting.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on GI motility complications in ICU patients.
- Analysis of risk factors contributing to GI motor dysfunction.
Main Results:
- Common GI motility issues include gastroesophageal reflux, gastroparesis, ileus, and acute pseudo-obstruction of the colon.
- Risk factors identified include sepsis, mechanical ventilation, vasopressors, opioids, and anticholinergic medications.
Conclusions:
- GI motility disorders are significant complications in the ICU.
- Understanding and managing these disorders is crucial for improving patient outcomes in critical care.
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