Use of ATLS protocol for the management of poly trauma patient with maxillofacial injuries

The management of a poly trauma patient requires a collaborated, multidisciplinary approach in order to get a favorable patient outcome. Knowledge of type of problems these patients encounter is critical to ensure that life threatening problems are timely recognized and treated and minor injuries are not ignored. The article highlights the management of a poly trauma patient using ATLS protocol and also throws light on the area of specific involvement of the medical team. ATLS protocol although regarded as a gold standard for the management of a trauma patient, but strict adherence to this protocol may not be always possible in case of a patient with facial trauma. An Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon needs to be aware of these probable problems and should be aware of how to manage them if the need arises.