Precision hemostasis: how viscoelastic testing guides real-time decision-making in trauma

Viscoelastic testing is an old but evolving technology that is commonly used in the management of trauma patients. Unlike conventional coagulation studies that provide information on specific parts of the clotting process, viscoelastic testing gives a more global view of clotting. The two currently used forms of viscoelastic testing are rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) and thromboelastography (TEG). This review will outline the history, technical aspects, and clinical data for ROTEM and TEG in the context of managing traumatic injury.