Trauma

Abstract

This chapter starts with assessment and treatment of the time-critical trauma patient. It describes the primary survey in detail, with clear highlighted sections on areas of express concern or danger. The ‘two Hs’ and ‘two Ts’ of traumatic cardiac arrest are fully covered. The secondary survey is outlined, before moving on to specific forms of trauma and management. Head and neck injuries, maxillofacial injuries, chest injuries, abdominal and genitourinary trauma, bone and joint injuries are all covered, including causes, treatment, and potential problems. Regional injuries are then covered, including the upper limb, the wrist, finger fractures, pelvic injuries, and the lower limb. Complications of fractures are explained. Soft tissue injuries are also covered by region. Human and animal bites and tetanus-prone wounds, spinal injuries, amputation, blast and gunshot injuries, burns, and inhalation injuries are also explained.