Purpose of review: This review summarizes the results from long-term intensive care outcome research over the past 50 years. Key findings from early studies are reflected in citations of contemporary research.
Recent findings: The postintensive care syndrome (PICS) is a multifaceted entity of residual disability and complications burdening survivors of critical illness. Some interventions applied early in the history of outcomes research have now been confirmed as effective in counteracting specific PICS components.
Summary: Interest in patient-centred outcomes has been present since the beginning of modern intensive care. Findings from early long-term studies remain valid even in the face of contemporary large registries that facilitate follow-up of larger cohorts. A further understanding of the mechanisms leading to experienced physical and psychological impairment of PICS will be essential to the design of future intervention trials.