A trauma centre--what is involved

A trauma centre must provide a system of care. This begins as soon as possible after the injury and continues until the patient returns to his usual daily activities. Because of necessity, such trauma centres deal with those who have serious or multiple injuries. Then it is important to provide early and appropriate care from the outset and sometimes before definitive management is undertaken. Care must be expeditious always as this reduces morbidity and mortality. We consider management to be divided into (a) before admission, (b) care in hospital, and, lastly (c) rehabilitation or other measures after discharge. This paper focuses on what we describe as the "golden hour" which is that crucial first hour after admission. Nevertheless, to achieve optimal results the whole system of care is vital. It is in that initial hour, however, that our radiologic colleagues are most clearly and actively involved.