Dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract in critically ill patients has recently become a focus of intensive research. This book, the first one on this topic, is a comprehensive overview of what is currently known about the role of the gut in patients requiring intensive care. The definitions and pathogenesis of intestinal dysfunction are critically evaluated. Currently available and potential new ways to monitor intestinal function in the intensive care setting are presented. Emphasis has been placed on the evaluation of therapeutic strategies in the prevention and treatment of gut dysfunction. Options for monitoring and treating gut dysfunction in critically ill patients are rapidly evolving. This volume provides state-of-the-art information for both clinicians and clinical researchers.

Gastrointestinal Structure and Function

Pathophysiology of Gut Dysfunction in Shock and Sepsis
Intestinal Musosal Hyperpermeability in Critical Illness
Molecular Mechanisms of Intestinal Injury, Repair, and Growth
Regulation of Gut Perfusion
Regulation of Gut Oxygen Delivery, Cellular Oxygen Supply and Metabolic Activity
Immunology of the Gut
Mast Cells and Neutrophils in Intestinal Ischemia/Reperfusion
Clinical Markers of Gastrointestinal Dysfunction
Bacterial Translocation
Bacterial Translocation: Intestinal Epithelial Permeability
Is Bacterial Translocation Clinically Relevant?
Experimental Multiple Organ Failure and Gut Dysfunction
Intestinal Cytokines
Selective Decontamination of the Digestive Tract
Increased Gastrointestinal Permeability
Gut Dysfunction in Trauma Patients
Gut Perfusion
Gastrointestinal Mucosal Ischemia
Monitoring Gut Perfusion
Effects of Pharmacologic Agents on Splanchnic Blood Flow
Therapeutic Options to Increase Splanchnic Blood Flow
Gut Metabolism
Gastrointestinal Exocrine Failure in Critical Illness
Early Enteral Nutrition in the Surgical Patient
Glutamine: A Gut Essential Amino Acid
Enteral Nutrition Support in Surgical Intensive Care Patients
Enteral Diets in Critically Ill Patients
Future Directions
Experimental Advances in Intestinal Monitoring
Growth Factors and the Intestine.