Background Severe sepsis (acute organ dysfunction secondary to infection) and septic shock (severe sepsis combined with hypotension which can not be reversed by fluid resuscitation) are critical and life-threatening problems for peri-operative patients around the world. Objective It is widely acknowledged that, appropriate treatments administered in time are likely to influence the outcome. This present article draw a systemic review of the pertinent literature to provide guidance for clinician. Content Contemporary achievements in management of severe sepsis and septic shock were mainly focus on：anti-infection, goal-directed volume therapy; mechanical ventilation; glycemic control; prophylaxis and treatment for complications etc. Trend The pathogenesis of sepsis including inflammation, coagulation dysfunction and apoptosis. The research of new strategies, is based on the three important aspects mentioned above. Although the guidelines have been updating on a regular basis, documentation of impact on patient outcome is limited. It requires our collaborates, to launch multicenter research, to validate and complete the protocols, and to make more contributions to clinical work.