The Lethal Diamond Concept in Early Polytrauma: A Modern Perspective on Pathophysiology and Hemostatic Resuscitation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/JEHS.2026.94.74874Keywords
polytrauma, Lethal Diamond, trauma-induced coagulopathy, hemorrhagic shock, hemostatic resuscitation, thromboelastometryAbstract
The early period of acute polytrauma is characterized by the rapid development of systemic pathophysiological disturbances that largely determine patient survival during the first hours after injury and the quality of care provided at both prehospital and hospital stages. Trauma-induced coagulopathy, hemorrhagic shock, hypothermia, acidosis, and hypocalcemia form a complex interconnected pathological process that contributes to ongoing bleeding and progressive impairment of the body's coagulation system. The Lethal Diamond concept represents a modern extension of the classical Lethal Triad and provides a more comprehensive explanation of the mechanisms underlying early decompensation in severe trauma. The aim of this review is to analyze current research elucidating the pathophysiology of the Lethal Diamond, its clinical significance, and the role of early hemostatic resuscitation in acute polytrauma.
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