Considerations for Coagulation in the Multi‐trauma Patient

Anticoagulation in the multi-trauma patient with traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury is a complicated issue. Knowledge of the mechanism of action of anticoagulants and reversal agents is key to saving lives. Patients on anticoagulation with brain or spinal cord injury must have their anticoagulation reversed on arrival to prevent further neurological deficits. The timing of prophylactic anticoagulation in the multi-trauma patient is important in preventing venous thromboembolism or worsening intracerebral hemorrhage. Thus, knowledge of the literature regarding anticoagulation in the trauma patient is key to saving lives.