Metabolic response to injury

Abstract

Objective: To outline the modern understanding of the aetiology of the metabolic response to injury.

Data resources: Review of the relevant literature of the twentieth century.

Study selection: Papers were selected for their relevance to the topic. Preference was for relevant animal and human studies.

Data extraction and synthesis: Relevant papers were obtained through MEDLINE search strategies. Papers were read and analysed for accuracy of methodology, statistics, and application to the review in hand. The review also relied heavily on the author's own work.

Conclusion: Cytokines are central to the metabolic response to injury and that understanding of their compartmentalisation in critical illness could lead to new therapeutic strategies. The complexity of the system is recognised and suggestions are made for the practising surgeon.