Abstract
The report is based on a study of Dutch literature in the period between 1970 and 1989. Conclusions are:1.Considerable progress in traumatology is made over the passed decades. 2. The time required for the implementation of improvements in trauma care, since their first recommendation, exceeded in several cases two decades. 3. Estimates are that a further 25% reduction of traffic fatalities would be possible through adequate management of trauma care.