Pathophysiology of Hemorrhage as It Relates to the Warfighter

Saving lives of wounded military warfighters often depends on the ability to resolve or mitigate the pathophysiology of hemorrhage, specifically diminished oxygen delivery to vital organs that leads to multiorgan failure and death. However, caring for hemorrhaging patients on the battlefield presents unique challenges that extend beyond applying a tourniquet and giving a blood transfusion, especially when battlefield care must be provided for a prolonged period. This review describes these challenges and potential strategies for treating hemorrhage on the battlefield in a prolonged casualty care situation.