Trauma and Massive Blood Transfusions

Massive hemorrhage in trauma requires a multitude of interventions in order to obtain the best possible outcome. The resuscitative approach of the actively bleeding trauma patient has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Modern strategies deploy an earlier, more aggressive and holistic approach on both the diagnostic and therapeutic side. This review addresses the physiology of hemorrhage and traumatic coagulopathy, current treatment options, including damage control resuscitation, individualized and tailored coagulation management with the application of point-of-care testing, and the use of blood and procoagulant products.