Damage Control Resuscitation In Trauma

Abstract

Introduction: Most preventable trauma deaths are due to uncontrolled hemorrhage.

Methods: In this article, we briefly describe the pathophysiology of the classical triad of death in trauma, namely, acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy, and then suggest damage control resuscitation strategies to prevent and/or mitigate the effects of each in the bleeding patient.

Results: Damage control resuscitation strategies include body rewarming, restrictive fluid administration, permissive hypotension, balanced blood product administration, and the implementation of massive transfusion protocols.

Conclusion: Resuscitating and correcting the coagulopathy of the exsanguinating trauma patient is essential to improve chances of survival.

Keywords: Resuscitation; acidosis; blood component transfusion; consumption coagulopathy; hemorrhage; wounds and injury.