Conventional weapons and explosives continue to be the most commonly employed instruments of destruction by terrorists worldwide. Such attacks are occurring with increasing frequency and ferocity. The effects of bombings and blast injuries are both physically and psychologically devastating. Explosions combine four mechanisms of injury. In addition to these causes of injury and death, crush injury, entrapment, and compartment syndrome magnify the devastation of blast trauma. By recognizing the unique features of blast injuries and by
prioritizing mass casualties to provide maximal benefit for the greatest number of patients, the physician will be better equipped to triage and stabilize these victims.