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Energy expenditure measurement in critical care: Implications for personalized nutrition support

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Accurate measurement of energy expenditure (EE) is critical for optimizing nutritional support in critically ill patients. Indirect calorimetry (IC) is the reference method used, but its availability at the bedside is limited. As a result, numerous predictive equations have been devised to estimate EE in critically ill patients, along with other more novel methods recently proposed. AIM: To evaluate current methods of measuring EE in critical care, focusing on practical challenges, accuracy, feasibility, and limitations. We will also discuss how these methods contribute to improving nutrition support strategies for intensive care unit patients for a more personalised and effective solution. METHODS: Eligible studies compared EE measurement methods in critically ill populations. Data extraction and quality assessment followed PRISMA guidelines. Adherence to reporting standards was assessed using the TRIPOD questionnaire and risk of bias was evaluated using the PROBAST tool. RESULTS: Twenty five original studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. CONCLUSION: Each method has unique strengths and limitations. We found that while IC remains the reference standard, less accurate predictive equations have greater accessibility and ease of implementation. Emerging technologies show promise for bedside applicability. Future research should address practical barriers and validate newer approaches.

Source: World Journal of Critical Care Medicine

DOI: 10.5492/wjccm.v14.i3.105299

Authors: Jiayang Chen, Kay Choong See

Institutions: National University Hospital, National University Health System

Language: English

Topic: Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterology

Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics

Field: Nursing

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4413068987