Objective　To make clear the effect of gastrointestinal tract ischemia on multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Methods　The literature in the recent years was reviewed. Results　The low-flow states of gastrointestinal tract and decrease of gastrointestinal intramucosal pH, which occured following a variety of insults (sever trauma, hemorrhagic shock, et al), as well as overgrowth of enterobacteria, may result in a significant increase of permeability of bowel and lead to endotoxemia and bacterial translocation. Ischemia also resulted in release of TNF, IL-6 into the systemic circulation, dysfunction of gastrointestinal tract motility, and activation of neutrophile which was integral in local and distant organ damage. Conclusion　These data suggest that the management of correct ischemia of gastrointestinal tract, which include fluid infusion to replacement of blood volume, early enteral nutrition, improvement of gastrointestinal movement, could contribute to improve the intestinal barrier function, and prevent the development of MODS.