A complete state-of-the-art manual on nutritional support for ICU patients, the present book, written by internationally renowned specialists, addresses fundamental aspects of the pathophysiological response to injury as well as practical issues of nutritional care. New features include an analysis of gene polymorphism and its possible consequences for the survival of traumatized patients. A better understanding of this process could become a basis for defining new nutritional strategies. Hence the discussion on indications for immune-enhancing diets. Of special interest is the research on copathologies (i.e. obesity) which can change the prognosis of ICU patients who thus require specific nutritional support. Entirely new is the merging of the recommendations of international and national societies (e.g. ASPEN, ESPEN), first realized for this publication. This book is a basic tool for any professional in the field of nutritional care for ICU patients: intensivists, surgeons, pharmacists, dieticians, and Ph D students.