Neurotrauma and trauma systems.

Optimal trauma care, including that for head and spinal cord injury, requires system organization and adoption throughout the United States and the world. Neurosurgeons play an essential role in system design and development in addition to treating neurotrauma patients. Areas of neurosurgical involvement include defining prehospital triage and treatment guidelines, emergency department evaluation and therapy, operative management, and active involvement in the critical care and acute hospital settings. Collaboration among all members of the trauma team is essential to ensure the best possible outcome for patients with traumatic injuries.