Evaluation and management of the trauma patient for the interventional radiologist.

Interventional radiologists are adopting an increasingly important role in the evaluation and management of the acutely injured patient. The interventional radiologist may be called upon to provide services while hemorrhage is active, the patient is hemodynamically compromised, and a comprehensive trauma assessment is incomplete. The initial diagnostic and management approach to the trauma patient is optimally organized through the principles of advanced trauma life support. A basic understanding of common injury patterns, immediate lifesaving interventions, and principles of resuscitation is of value to the interventional radiologist in his or her interactions with the trauma team and contribution to patient care.