Abstract Traffic collisions, followed by falls, are by far the most common cause of severe blunt abdominal trauma. Solid organs, usually the spleen and liver, are the most commonly injured…

Abstract Elderly patients have limited respiratory reserve and often decompensate rapidly and unexpectedly. Liberal early endotracheal intubation should be considered. Good preoxygenation should be a priority whenever possible. Chapter 14…

Abstract Neck injuries, particularly those due to penetrating trauma, are difficult to evaluate and manage due to the dense concentration of vital structures in a small anatomical space that can…

Abstract In the US, approximately 10,000 spinal cord injuries yearly result in permanent disability. Most spinal cord injuries are caused by motor vehicle collisions (40%), violence (30%), falls (20%), and…

Abstract Orthopedic injuries are found in approximately 85% of blunt trauma victims; thus knowledge of their evaluation and treatment is important. Some of these injuries are also acutely life- or…

Abstract Chest trauma is estimated to be the primary cause of death in 25% of traumatic mortalities and a contributing factor in another 25% of deaths. Good understanding of the…

Abstract Head trauma is the most common cause of death and permanent disability following trauma. Blunt head injury is usually the result of motor vehicle collisions, auto versus pedestrian collisions,…

Abstract Facial injuries are common and can involve both soft tissue injury and bony injury. These often occur because of motor vehicle collisions, secondary to direct impact against the windshield,…