ABSTRACT
I. INTRODUCTION In this chapter the authors will discuss how consideration of the mechanism of injury (MOI) can assist in making triage decisions in order to optimize care and to determine the disposition of the trauma patient. The biomechanics of trauma will be reviewed. Examination will also be made of the relationship between various mechanisms of injury and clinical injury patterns in order to improve detection of injuries and anticipation of complications. The history of the traumatic event and the physical observations of the trauma scene by prehospital personnel may provide important information in the prehospital and hospital phases of patient care.
