The Basics of Trauma Surgery from Coursera

This course imparts a wide range of basic knowledge and skills in the field of trauma surgical and orthopedic treatment of patients. To facilitate this, the course employs a new concept of information transfer. We follow a scientific approach and a sophisticated combination of modern teaching methods to vividly impart the taught contents. This included case-based learning, comprehensive factual knowledge, and consecutive quizzes, which help to better memorize the learned contents and later employ them in everyday situations in the field of trauma surgery.

The course participants are introduced to the multi-faceted field of the treatment of trauma patients. Different trauma mechanism and their sequelae are elucidated, as well as the respective gold standard of medical treatment of these injuries by means of modern trauma surgery. All episodes – of which each one is dedicated to a distinct pathology – follow the same approach:

• Introduction and/or repetition of the anatomic principles

• Prelude of the topic by means of a film

• Classification of the treated wound, e.g. according to AO

• Summary of relevant and current therapeutic options

• Each episode is interspersed with short quizzes to immediately recapitulate the learned contents and which will help solving the exam quizzes

The course was compiled by an interdisciplinary team of internationally renowned experts from the special field of orthopedic surgery from Germany. Depending on the respective consultant’s specialization, suitable case scenarios from our clinic are presented.

Dieser Kurs ist auch in deutscher Sprache verfügbar. Für die ursprüngliche, deutsche Version des Kurses besuchen Sie bitte https://www.coursera.org/learn/unfallchirurgie.

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1

The first part of this module is attended to familiarize the participants with the management of polytraumatized patients. They will learn about the operational procedure in a trauma room and get to know the ATLS algorithm. This standardized algorithm that is used all over the world is based on the ABCDE scheme that will be explained to you in detail. It is intended to structure complex life-threatening injuries and help you enable the survival of your patient. In the second part of this module, attendees will be introduced to the principles of fracture management. They will not only learn about bone structure and its function, but also acquire knowledge about the classification of fractures. They will get to know the three principles of conservative and operative treatment which are reduction, fixation and rehabilitation. Therefore, particular attention will be paid to the different modes of osteosynthesis. The third part of this module is the introduction to our tutorial regarding the upper extremity. In the third episode, participants will learn about clavicle fractures. First, they will be familiarized with the anatomy of the clavicle and the classification of its fractures. Subsequently, they will get to know the different injury mechanisms, the correct diagnostic investigation and figure out the right mode of therapy. Thereby, the dreaded complication of pseudarthroses will also be elaborated on. The fourth and last episode of this module is about humeral head fractures. First of all, attendees will recapitulate the most important anatomical principles. They will be acquainted with the most common classification according to Neer. The aim is to help them making therapeutical decisions which include non-operative options and operative treatment with plates or prostheses.

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Strong fit for those in the field of trauma surgery seeking new knowledge and skills in treating trauma patients

Taught by experts in the field, offering high-quality instruction from experienced professionals

Employs a unique and effective combination of modern teaching methods to enhance learning

Covers a wide range of basic knowledge and skills, providing a comprehensive foundation in trauma surgical and orthopedic treatment

Includes case-based learning, quizzes, and interactive elements to reinforce learning and improve retention

Reviews summary

Comprehensive introduction to trauma surgery

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in the basics of trauma surgery. Students appreciate the focus on anatomical principles and the detailed coverage of common injuries, especially fractures across different body regions. The course structure, moving from anatomy to classification (e.g., AO, Neer) and then to treatment options, is found to be logical and effective. The inclusion of case-based learning and quizzes helps to reinforce the material and make it clinically applicable. While comprehensive for beginners, some reviewers note it may be too basic for advanced learners or residents seeking in-depth knowledge. Overall, it is considered a valuable introduction to the field, suitable for medical students or those needing a strong refresher.

Excellent for beginners or those reviewing.

"This course was perfect if you are just starting out in trauma surgery."

"It served as a great refresher for basic concepts I hadn't touched in a while."

"It assumed little prior knowledge, which was helpful for me."

Quizzes and structure aid understanding.

"The quizzes were great for checking my knowledge after each section and reinforcing key points."

"Course structure made it easy to follow the progression from injury type to treatment."

"Videos were clear and easy to watch, presenting information well."

Material is clinically relevant with useful cases.

"The case examples made the concepts much more understandable and applicable to my practice."

"I learned knowledge I can use directly in clinical situations."

"Cases really helped solidify my understanding of treatment decisions for specific injuries."

Strong focus on anatomy and injury classification.

"I really appreciated the anatomical refreshers before each injury type."

"Explanations of classifications like AO and Neer were very clear."

"Understanding the anatomy first made understanding treatment decisions easier."

Covers wide range of essential topics.

"Provides a great overview of many common trauma injuries I see."

"Covers the essential basics I needed to know for trauma surgery."

"Really helped me build a foundational understanding of the field."

May lack depth for experienced learners.

"As a resident, I found it a bit too basic in some areas I was hoping for more detail."

"It could use more in-depth discussion on managing complex cases."

"The course doesn't go into advanced surgical techniques, focusing strictly on basics."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Basics of Trauma Surgery with these activities:

Review basic anatomy and physiology

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Review basic anatomy and physiology to improve your understanding of traumatological injuries and their treatment.

Browse courses on Anatomy

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Read a textbook on anatomy and physiology
Complete online quizzes on anatomy and physiology
Attend a workshop on anatomy and physiology

Review anatomy of the upper extremity

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Reviewing the anatomy of the upper extremity will provide a solid foundation for understanding the various injuries and treatments covered in this course.

Browse courses on Skeletal System

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Review textbook diagrams and descriptions
Watch online videos or tutorials on the topic
Complete practice questions or quizzes

Follow tutorials on fracture management

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Following tutorials on fracture management will provide practical guidance and reinforce the concepts covered in the course.

Browse courses on Fracture Management

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Search for reputable online tutorials
Choose tutorials that cover specific fracture types and treatments
Follow the instructions and complete any exercises or assessments

Two other activities

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Practice classifying fractures using radiographs

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Practicing fracture classification will enhance your ability to accurately diagnose and treat fractures.

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Obtain a set of radiographs of different fracture types
Study the radiographs and identify the key features of each fracture
Classify the fractures according to the appropriate system (e.g., AO)
Compare your classifications with those of an expert or reference guide

Volunteer in an orthopedic or trauma surgery clinic

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Volunteering in an orthopedic or trauma surgery clinic will provide you with firsthand exposure to the field and enhance your practical skills.

Browse courses on Orthopedic Surgery

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Identify local orthopedic or trauma surgery clinics
Contact the clinics and inquire about volunteer opportunities
Attend volunteer training sessions
Assist with patient care under the supervision of a medical professional

Career center

Learners who complete The Basics of Trauma Surgery will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Trauma Surgeon

A Trauma Surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of patients who have experienced major physical trauma. This course can potentially give you a solid foundation in the field of trauma surgery, which may be beneficial if you are interested in pursuing a career in this field. Specifically, the course covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Trauma Surgeon

Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthopedic Surgeons specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This course can be particularly useful for those interested in pursuing a career as an Orthopedic Surgeon, as it covers topics such as the principles of fracture management, the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries, and the management of polytraumatized patients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Orthopedic Surgeon

Emergency Room Physician

Emergency Room Physicians are responsible for providing immediate medical care to patients who have experienced a sudden illness or injury. This course can be helpful for those interested in pursuing a career as an Emergency Room Physician, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Critical Care Physician

Critical Care Physicians specialize in the care of critically ill patients, often in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a Critical Care Physician, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants are medical professionals who are trained to provide a wide range of medical services under the supervision of a physician. This course can be beneficial for those interested in pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioners are registered nurses who have completed additional education and training to provide a wide range of medical services. This course can be helpful for those interested in pursuing a career as a Nurse Practitioner, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Physical Therapist

Physical Therapists are healthcare professionals who help patients restore and maintain their physical function, mobility, and overall well-being. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a Physical Therapist, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapists are healthcare professionals who help patients recover from injuries or illnesses and improve their ability to perform everyday activities. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as an Occupational Therapist, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech-Language Pathologists are healthcare professionals who help patients with communication and swallowing disorders. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a Speech-Language Pathologist, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Prosthetist

Prosthetists are healthcare professionals who design, fabricate, and fit artificial limbs and other devices to help patients restore their physical function and mobility. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a Prosthetist, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Orthotist

Orthotists are healthcare professionals who design, fabricate, and fit braces and other devices to help patients restore their physical function and mobility. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as an Orthotist, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Athletic Trainer

Athletic Trainers are healthcare professionals who work with athletes to prevent and treat injuries, and to help them recover from injuries and improve their performance. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as an Athletic Trainer, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Medical Researcher

Medical Researchers design and conduct studies to investigate new treatments and technologies for preventing and treating diseases and injuries. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a Medical Researcher, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare Administrators are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing healthcare delivery systems and services. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a Healthcare Administrator, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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Medical Writer

Medical Writers create and edit written materials about medical topics for a variety of audiences, including patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public. This course may be useful for those interested in pursuing a career as a Medical Writer, as it covers topics such as the management of polytraumatized patients, the principles of fracture management, and the treatment of various types of fractures and injuries.

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