Visualizing multiple organ failure: a method for analyzing temporal and dynamic relations between failing systems and interventions

Multiple organ failure is common among critically ill patients who have a prolonged stay in the intensive care unit or die. Apart from causing significant morbidity and mortality, the treatment for multiple organ failure requires use of limited and costly resources. Although the epidemiology and progression of multiple organ failure are well described, it is not possible to conduct detailed and reliable analyses of the temporal relations between failing organs and the effects of interventions (for instance, institution of antibiotic therapy or surgery). In addition, progression of multiple organ failure may differ between patient populations [1]. We describe a method that allows evaluation of the temporal and dynamic nature of multiple organ failure.