Initial Approach to Damage Control Resuscitation

Damage control resuscitation is a comparatively recent concept that has developed from military experience in warfare. It has been successfully used in both conflict surgery and in civilian settings in patients with severe injuries, where the emphasis is placed on targeting physiological rather than anatomical restoration, with multiple shorter staged procedures replacing one longer operation. It is not a universally required approach for all patients, but those who are the most unstable as a result from injuries have the most to gain from this approach. While the historical approach to damage control has been focused on surgical approaches, there are several non-surgical interventions which fit with this paradigm of care. A shared understanding of this approach and its application is essential for success, as it requires all team members to understand the ultimate end goal and methodology.