Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
lethal triad
The combination of hypothermia, acidosis, and coagulopathy that develops in severely injured trauma patients.
Full Definition
The lethal triad refers to the dangerous physiological triangle of hypothermia, acidosis, and coagulopathy that commonly develops in severely injured trauma patients. This self-perpetuating cycle significantly increases mortality risk, as each component worsens the others. Recognition of the lethal triad is crucial for trauma surgeons as it indicates the need for aggressive resuscitation and often damage control surgery. The triad typically develops during prolonged surgical procedures or in patients with massive blood loss.
Usage
Usage note: Always written as 'lethal triad' not 'deadly triad' or other variants in medical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient developed the lethal triad during the lengthy exploratory procedure, prompting immediate damage control measures." — Surgical report
- "Prevention of the lethal triad requires aggressive warming, correction of acidosis, and early blood product administration." — Clinical protocol
Also known as
trauma triad
death triangle
Don't confuse with
trauma tetrad
Beck's triad