The topic of polytrauma represents one of the greatest challenges in trauma surgery and requires optimal cooperation among all parties involved in patient care. Consistent management of the traumatized patient necessitates concrete guidelines for practice.

The spectrum: In the three main sections—Infrastructure, Prehospital Care, and Hospital Care—all aspects of trauma management are competently addressed. Proven and established models present the necessary maximum in infrastructure, logistics, training, and education as confidently as the diagnostic and therapeutic spectrum. Standardized action concepts provide the necessary safety and routine in acute situations.

The editors: Prof. Dr. Harald Tscherne is the medical director of the Trauma Surgery Clinic at MHH. Prof. Dr. Gerd Regel is a senior physician in trauma surgery.