Disseminated intravascular coagulation: a review.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) results from activation of the blood coagulation cascade by various disease processes. DIC may occur with blunt head trauma and, with severe head trauma, may reflect brain parenchymal injury. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons who treat traumatized patients should be aware of the implications of DIC with regard to patient management, diagnosis, and surgical considerations.