[Trauma-induced coagulopathy]

The main cause of death in the patient group less than 45 years is trauma. Beside severe traumatic brain injury, bleeding remains a leading cause of death in this group. For a causal therapy, it is necessary to understand the pathophysiology of trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC). Beside the well-known lethal triad of trauma (hypothermia, acidosis, and coagulopathy), dilution and hypoperfusion with activation of the protein C pathway play a crucial role. TIC is a complex independent syndrome which may be present without initial hypercoagulopathy. A rapid and differentiated diagnosis and goal-directed therapy is crucial for causal therapy.