Controversies in advanced trauma life support

Abstract
Since its introduction to the UK in 1988, the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) course has become the accepted standard for the care of victims of trauma during the ‘golden hour’. Yet despite this success, ATLS has been criticized over the years for its philosophy, the course contents, the rigid regulations, cost to participants and lack of validation. The aim of this article is to explore these and other frequently voiced concerns in the light of evidence gathered over the 20 years since ATLS was first introduced in the USA.