Trauma and Acute Care Surgery
When you or your loved ones need immediate help, we are here for you. Our trauma surgeons expertly perform emergency surgery for complex traumatic injuries and medical emergencies.
Medically reviewed on Aug. 29, 2023.
Highest Level Surgical Trauma Care
UC Davis Medical Center is one of only three medical centers in the state with level 1 trauma centers for both adults and children. This designation from the American College of Surgeons means we provide the highest-level adult and pediatric trauma care.
As the only level 1 trauma center north of San Francisco, we perform surgeries for all types of traumatic injuries. We also participate in regional earthquake and disaster planning, as well as research and clinical trials.
On this page
Types of Trauma and Acute Care Surgeries
UC Davis Health trauma surgeons perform a range of emergency surgical procedures. Depending on your injury, our team may partner with other surgical specialists.
Dedicated Care for Brain Injuries
Our neurosurgeons and neurointensivists work with our trauma surgeons to provide advanced care if you have a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Advanced Surgeries for Orthopaedic Fractures
Our orthopaedic surgeons specialize in surgical treatments for orthopaedic trauma and fractures. Injuries, such as complex pelvic, hip and limb fractures, need prompt medical attention.
Expert Emergency Heart Surgery
Our cardiac surgeons perform surgeries for severe heart attacks that are medical emergencies. They may also perform cardiothoracic surgeries for life-threatening blunt force and penetrating chest traumas.
Conditions
What to Expect: Trauma and Acute Care Surgery
As a level 1 trauma center, we have general surgeons on site at UC Davis Medical Center at all times. You also have access to surgeons from all medical specialties. Don't delay care if you or a loved one has a traumatic accident or health emergency.
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During Trauma and Acute Care Surgery
More about anesthesiology and pain medicineAnesthesiologists at our level 1 trauma center have advanced training in trauma anesthesia. These specialists provide anesthesia and pain management while you get treatment for blunt force injuries, penetrating wounds or other traumatic injuries. These types of injuries require fast medical care.
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After Trauma and Acute Care Surgery
Explore the UC Davis Rehabilitation HospitalYour recovery takes place in our medical-surgical intensive care unit (MSICU). MSICU Gold provides specialized care for critically ill adults and children ages 9 to 18 recovering from emergency surgery. Your length of stay at our hospital depends on the extent of your injuries and individual recovery. Some patients need inpatient rehabilitation services before going home.
Home Care
Recovery after emergency surgery depends on the extent of the traumatic injury, your overall health and other factors. To aid your recovery at home, be sure to follow your care team’s instructions.
Take Your Medications
You should take medications for pain and other symptoms as prescribed by your provider.
Participate in Rehabilitation
After a traumatic injury and surgery, you may benefit from our outpatient physical therapy services and programs. Our specialists help you regain strength, build endurance and improve mobility.
Rest and Heal
Your body needs time and rest to recover after a traumatic injury and surgery. Follow your provider’s recommendations for resuming everyday activities.
Awards and Recognitions
Ranked among the nation’s best hospitals
A U.S. News & World Report best hospital in cancer, cardiology, heart & vascular surgery, diabetes & endocrinology, ENT, geriatrics, neurology & neurosurgery, obstetrics & gynecology, and pulmonology & lung surgery.
Ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals
A U.S. News & World Report best children’s hospital in diabetes & endocrinology, nephrology, and orthopedics*. (*Together with Shriners Children’s)
Ranked Sacramento’s #1 hospital
Ranked Sacramento’s #1 hospital by U.S. News, and high-performing in COPD, colon cancer surgery, diabetes, heart attack, heart failure, hip fracture, hip replacement, kidney failure, leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma, lung cancer surgery, ovarian cancer surgery, pneumonia, prostate cancer surgery, stroke, TAVR, uterine cancer surgery, gastroenterology & GI surgery, and orthopedics.
The nation’s highest nursing honor
UC Davis Medical Center has received Magnet® recognition, the nation’s highest honor for nursing excellence.
“Most Wired” for acute care
UC Davis Health has been recognized as a level 10 out of 10 in the Digital Health “Most Wired” program from the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME). The honor recognizes excellence in using technology to improve the delivery of care.
“Most Wired” for ambulatory care
UC Davis Health has been recognized as a level 10 out of 10 in the Digital Health “Most Wired” program from the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME). The honor recognizes excellence in using technology to improve the delivery of care.
World-class cancer care
One of ~56 U.S. cancer centers designated “comprehensive” by the National Cancer Institute.
A leader in health care equality
For the 11th consecutive year, UC Davis Medical Center has been recognized as a “Leader in LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality.”