The outcomes of obese patients in critical care

Laszlo Kiraly, Ryan T. Hurt, Charles W. Van Way

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

27 Scopus citations

Abstract

The severity and prevalence of obesity continue to rise throughout the world. A similar rise in the prevalence of obesity is seen in the population of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). In the ICU setting, nearly every aspect of care is made more difficult by obesity. This review highlights the challenges in the care of obese ICU patients. Multiple statistical reviews have suggested improved outcomes for obese ICU patients. This article critically evaluates published outcome studies and highlights potential confounders that may result in misleading results. Body mass index (BMI) has been traditionally used to stratify risk in obese populations. Other factors that may be more predictive of poor outcomes in obese populations are further discussed. Further research in these factors has the potential to guide therapy in high-risk critically ill obese populations.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)29S-35S
JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
Volume35
Issue number5 SUPPL.
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2011

Keywords

  • Body mass index
  • Critical illness
  • Enteral nutrition
  • Mortality
  • Obesity
  • Research and diseases

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Medicine (miscellaneous)
  • Nutrition and Dietetics

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