Massive transfusion in trauma: process and outcomes

Massive transfusion in trauma presents a unique challenge to trauma center effectiveness. It requires the highest level of collaboration between multiple departments working together in a timed event and as such serves as a barometer of trauma program maturity and success. The development of a massive transfusion protocol is necessary to manage this limited resource in trauma centers. The protocol should be revised frequently to reflect cutting edge research and continual improvements in blood banking. This article will review the status of massive transfusion in trauma, use of massive transfusion protocols and suggest quality improvement initiatives for blood use in trauma centers.