A current concept of trauma-induced multiorgan failure

Trauma deaths continue to show a trimodal distribution: immediately at the scene, within the first 24 hours during initial resuscitation, and in the next 3 to 4 weeks as a result of multiple organ failure.1 Failure to resuscitate adequately in the emergency department can lead to acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy, which can result in multiple organ failure and cause death in these patients. Our current understanding of the initial response to shock and trauma and the development of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome and progressive organ failure is one of a continuum initiated and perpetuated by inflammation and inflammatory mediators. The pathophysiologic character, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of traumatic injury–induced multiple organ failure are discussed. [Lee CC, Marill KA, Carter WA, Crupi RS. A current concept of trauma-induced multiorgan failure. Ann Emerg Med. August 2001;38:170-176.]