This review article discusses pathophysiology of gut failure and its relation to multi-organ failure (MOF). Triggering factors are reviewed with pathophysiologic mechanisms which take part on the increase of intestinal wall permeability, leading to translocation of bacteria or their toxins from the intestinal lumen. In conclusion, the authors state that in spite of deemed connection between bacterial translocation, increased intestinal wall permeability and the development of MOSF, there is no clear definition or evidence of that relationship.

        Key words: bacterial translocation – intestinal wall permeability