Potential value of protocols in substantially bleeding trauma patients

Purpose of review Early identification of shock and coagulopathy coupled with damage control resuscitation are central tenets of early trauma management. In traumatic injury, haemorrhage is responsible for almost 50% of deaths occurring within the first 24 h of injury and up to 80% of intraoperative trauma mortalities. Immediate haemorrhagic mortality constitutes the largest group of potentially preventable deaths in the initial 24-h period. This review will discuss the recent changes and advancement of early traumatic coagulopathy and the important role of substantial bleeding protocols (SBPs). Recent findings Ho et al. examined survivor bias and determined when accounting for survivor bias improved survival outcome with higher fresh frozen plasma: red blood cell ratios. The PROMMTT study, a 10-centre observation trial, highlighted the variable nature of infusion, the importance of time and improved outcomes with higher product ratios. Summary An SBP addresses the organizational issues necessary to respond to massive blood loss in an immediate and sustained manner. It reduces provider variability, facilitates staff communication and compliance, and simplifies the administration of predefined ratios of blood components. A transfusion subcommittee should be formed to directly address the complex issues of implementing a SBP system.