MODS
Pronunciation: mods
Also written as: MODS — Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome
Progressive physiologic dysfunction of two or more organ systems following acute injury or illness.
Full Definition
Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS) is a clinical condition characterized by the progressive failure of two or more organ systems that cannot maintain homeostasis without intervention. In surgical critical care, MODS represents the end-stage of the systemic inflammatory response and is the leading cause of death in surgical ICUs. The syndrome typically evolves over days to weeks following major surgery, trauma, or sepsis, with sequential organ failure including respiratory, cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, hematologic, and neurologic systems. Early recognition and aggressive supportive care are essential, as mortality increases exponentially with each additional failing organ system.
Usage
Usage note: Pronounced 'mods' as a word, not spelled out as M-O-D-S.
In Context
- "The patient developed MODS following complicated abdominal surgery with septic shock." — ICU progress note
- "MODS scoring systems help predict mortality in critically ill surgical patients." — Research protocol