In the first year after acute necrotising pancreatitis patients showed improvement in their physical components of quality of life and in their physical function, but their outcome at 12 months was still poor compared to the general population. This patient group in particular may benefit from a structured rehabilitation programme continuing after hospital discharge.

We have confirmed frequent breaches of microbial integrity in industry-standard, bicarbonate-based CVVH, indicating the potential for added risk to the vulnerable, critically ill patient. These findings are of particular concern given the need for systemic infusion of replacement fluid. Measures to reduce the levels of contamination and their impact are discussed.

No abstract