Massive blood loss in trauma patients. The benefits and dangers of transfusion therapy.
In acutely injured patients, recognition of profound shock may be difficult initially. Ensuring adequate oxygenation, restoring intravascular volume, and controlling ongoing blood loss are key principles of treatment in these patients. Additionally, an appreciation for and recognition of the possible adverse consequences of massive transfusion (ie, hypothermia, coagulopathy, hypocalcemia, hyperkalemia, and hemolysis) enable physicians to prevent them or at least lessen their effects.
Phillips
G R
GR
Division of Traumatology and Surgical Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia 19104.
Kauder
D R
DR
Schwab
C W
CW
D001803:Blood Transfusion; D004630:Emergencies; D005440:Fluid Therapy; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D012771:Shock, Hemorrhagic / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D065227:Transfusion Reaction; D014193:Trauma Centers; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000150:complications*