Table 1

Lausanne Intestinal Failure Estimation (LIFE) based on the SOFA model including symptoms and continuous signs compared with the variables of Reintam and colleagues

Variable
Score 0
Score 1
Score 2
Score 3
Score 4

Reintam and colleagues [1]
Normal function
EN <50% of needs of no EN at day 3
EN intolerance (residues) or IAH
EN intolerance and IAH
Abdominal compartment syndrome

IAH (mmHg)
<12
12 to 15
15 to 20
20 to 25
>25
Lactate with pH <7.25 (mmol/l)
<2
2.0 to 3.0
3.0 to 4.0
4.0 to 5.0
>5.0
Gastric residue every 6 hours (ml)
<100
200 to 300
>300
>400 or vomiting regurgitation
-
Progression of feed by day of EN
Normal

<60% of needs by day 3

<60% of target by day 4
Constipation (stools over time)
One per 1 to 3 days
Zero in 4 days
Zero in 5 days, bloating
Abdominal distension
Ogilvie syndrome
Diarrheaa (number per day)
-
-
4 to 6
6 to 10
>10
Bowel sounds
Normal
Silence
-
Tympanic
-

The different items should be considered separately as relevant for the patient's condition, the highest (that is, worst) value being the gut score. EN, enteral nutrition; IAH, intra-abdominal pressure; SOFA = Sequential Organ Failure Assessment. aLiquid stool occurring at least four times per day.

Berger et al. Critical Care 2008 12:436   doi:10.1186/cc7120