Technological advancements in the care of the trauma patient

Abstract

Introdution: Medical technology has benefited many types of patients, but trauma care has arguably benefited more from technologic development than almost any other field.

Methods: A literature review to identify key technological advances in the care of trauma patients was performed.

Results: The advances in trauma care are in great measure due to the integration of many different systems. Medical technology impacts care in the field at the site of the trauma, in the transport to trauma facilities, and care at the trauma center itself. Once at the hospital, technology has impacted care in the trauma bay, intensive care units, the operating room, and in postoperative and long-term care settings. The integration of advancements, however, needs to be examined in a careful systematic fashion to insure that patients will actually derive benefit.

Keywords: Abdominal trauma; Pelvic trauma; Polytrauma; Vascular trauma.