Resting energy expenditure measured by indirect calorimetry in mechanically ventilated patients during ICU stay and post-ICU hospitalization: A prospective observational study

Purpose: The metabolic course during and after critical illness is unclear. We performed repeated indirect calorimetry (IC) measurements during ICU- and post-ICU hospitalization to determine resting energy expenditure (REE). Methods: Prospective observational design. In ventilated ICU patients, IC measurements were performed every three days until hospital discharge. Measured REE as predicted by the Harris-Benedict equation (HBE-REE) and 25 kcal/adjusted body weight/day (25-REE) were compared. Results: In 56 patients (38% females, 71[13]years, BMI 29(27;31)kg/m2), 189 ICU IC measurements were performed. Measured REE did not differ from HBE-REE at ICU admission, but was lower than 25-REE. Measured REE was increased compared to baseline on ICU-admission-day four (29(29–30)kcal/kg/day; mean difference 3.1(1.4–4.9)kcal/kg/day, p < 0.001) and thereafter during ICU admission. During post-ICU ward stay, 44 measurements were performed in 23 patients, showing a higher mean REE than during ICU stay (33(31–35)kcal/kg/day; mean difference 2.6(1.2–3.9)kcal/kg/day, p < 0.001). The REE in the ICU and ward was >110% of HBE-REE from day four onwards. Conclusions: Critically ill mechanically ventilated patients were shown to have a resting energy expenditure (REE) > 110% of predicted REE on ICU admission day four and thereafter. Indirect calorimetry measurements suggest that the mean energy requirements during post-ICU hospitalization are higher than those in the ICU.