Abstract: Damage Control Resuscitation (DCR) and Damage Control Surgery (DCS) have emerged from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom as a new way to deal with trauma. The goal of these procedures is to restore normal physiology as quickly as possible, often leaving restoration of normal anatomy to a later time, a different team of doctors and another geographical location. Priority number one is simply to keep the patient alive. Damage control resuscitation and damage control surgery are most likely to be employed when a soldier is suffering from multiple life-threatening injuries such as might be associated with exposure to explosive devices. Treatment typically proceeds in three stages. The first stage is surgical control of hemorrhage. At this stage, clamping or shunting a major blood vessel may be a better alternative than attempting to repair it. Blood pressure is stabilized at approximately 90 mmHg in order to maintain blood flow to the brain and vital organs while simultaneously guarding against re-bleeding. Stage two is the correction of the lethal triad of hypothermia, acidosis and coagulopathy to reestablish normal physiological function. The third and final stage is a planned reoperation where definitive care including re-exploration of wounds and surgical reconstruction can take place.