[Management of multiple traumas: possibilities and limitations in a general hospital]

The chances and the limits in the treatment of patients with multiple trauma are discussed on the example of the Marienkrankenhaus Trier-Ehrang. Definite conditions concerning to the rooms, the staff and the organisation must be realized. Most important is the cooperation between the anaesthesiologist and the surgeon. Short distances, short times and a well trained team are advantageous. If computed tomography and angiography are not available the diagnostical facilities are limited. Severe cranial trauma and spine fractures must be transferred to a special medical centre.