June 27, 2026
The 11th edition of Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) is now live and fully implemented at Mayo Clinic Trauma Center as of January 2026. The first physician and advanced practice professional (APP) certification course using the new edition was held April 28 to 29, 2026, delivered in person.
What is new in ATLS 11
ATLS 11 represents a substantial redesign, not a routine update, says Dawn M. Steinfadt, Trauma Center CME specialist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Every component — assessments, discussions, online modules, skills stations and textbook — has been rewritten to reflect current trauma evidence and modern trauma system needs.
Key enhancements include:
- 26 new interactive online modules plus required pre‑course videos.
- 200-plus new images and tables in a fully revised textbook.
- Redesigned hands‑on skill stations emphasizing real‑world applications.
- Stronger foci on team communication, leadership and trauma‑informed care.
- Expanded content on disaster preparedness and system‑level integration.
"ATLS 11 is a deliberate shift toward earlier hemorrhage control and clearer team dynamics," notes Steinfadt.
Shift toward prioritized hemorrhage control: Introducing xABDCE
A major change in ATLS 11 is the adoption of the xABDCE primary survey sequence, endorsed by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This reflects growing evidence that uncontrolled hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable trauma death.
xABDCE prioritizes:
- x — Exsanguination control.
- A — Airway and C‑spine protection.
- B — Breathing and ventilation.
- C — Circulation and hemorrhage control.
- D — Disability (neurologic status).
- E — Exposure and environmental control.
The rollout of xABDCE reinforces immediate interventions such as early damage control resuscitation, pelvic binders, tourniquets and wound packing.
Enhanced focus on communication and triage
ATLS 11 expands guidance on:
- Trauma team communication and role clarity.
- Patient and family communication after injury.
- Triage strategies, including mass casualty scenarios.
These additions reflect the realities of modern trauma care and the need for coordinated systemwide response.
ATLS requirements and course options
Trauma surgeons, APPs and emergency physicians must maintain ATLS certification every four years, per each professional's board requirements.
The ATLS programs include:
- Traditional two‑day courses.
- One‑day refresher courses.
- Instructor courses.
- A full calendar of national course dates and locations; hybrid options are available.
Detailed information is available on the ACS Trauma Education ATLS Program and Courses website.
ATLS background
ATLS launched in 1980 after a fatal plane crash involving an orthopedic surgeon and his family. It was created to establish a consistent, nationwide approach to trauma care. Mayo Clinic adopted ATLS in 1981 and continues to support its evolution.
The ACS Committee on Trauma updates the curriculum every four years, with companion courses for nurses, prehospital professionals and advanced practice clinicians.
For details on ATLS courses offered through Mayo Clinic Trauma Center, contact Dawn M. Steinfadt at steinfadt.dawn@mayo.edu.
For more information
Trauma education: ATLS Program and Courses. American College of Surgeons.