The obese trauma patient: treatment strategies

Despite numerous unique features in the responses to trauma among obese and morbidly obese patients, very little literature exists on the care of the injured obese person. Factors such as body composition, psychosocial factors, coexisting illness, size, and weight necessitate modifications to treatment protocols in almost all aspects of trauma care. Adaptations in hygiene, pharmacologic management, pulmonary support, rehabilitation, prevention of complications, and injury detection are needed to provide effective care to injured obese people. Body habitus, technical limitations of equipment, and unique injury patterns may increase the risk of missed injuries in this population. This article reviews the needs of the obese trauma patient and recommends strategies for effective multidisciplinary care.