Lethal Triad of Trauma and Massive Blood Transfusion Complications

Vocabulary flashcards covering the components and physiological mechanisms of the lethal triad of trauma, as well as complications associated with massive blood transfusion.

Lethal triad of trauma

A pathological condition common in patients with severe bleeding and shock, consisting of acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy.

Vicious cycle of death

An alternate term for the lethal triad of trauma, referring to the compounding self-reinforcing cycle of acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy.

Acidosis (in trauma)

A component of the lethal triad caused mainly by decreased tissue perfusion and increased lactate production during shock.

Hypothermia (in shock)

A drop in homeostatic body temperature caused by decreased ATP production due to reduced nutrient delivery in a shock state.

Coagulopathy (in trauma)

A impairment of blood clotting caused by reduced efficacy of enzymes in the coagulation cascade due to hypothermia, leading to increased bleeding.

Complications of massive blood transfusion

A group of transfusional adverse effects that includes coagulopathy, hypocalcaemia, hyperkalaemia, hypokalaemia, and hypothermia.