Conference registration offers an exceptional experience, granting you access to an online event portal complete with syllabus materials and continuing education credits. Your registration fee includes conference resources, light refreshments during the Wednesday evening reception, breakfast, lunch, and refreshments throughout the breaks on Thursday and Friday. Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your learning while enjoying great food and networking!

Early Registration - Received by Sunday, April 19^th 

• Physician - $550
• NP, PA, Resident - $400
• Registered Nurse - $375
• Allied Health (EMT, Paramedics, RT) - $350
• Students - $250

Regular Registration - Received on and after Monday, April 20^th 

• Physician - $600
• NP, PA, Resident - $450
• Registered Nurse - $425
• Allied Health (EMT, Paramedics, RT) - $380
• Students - $280

Cancellation / Refund Policy:

The conference registration fee is refundable minus a $200 processing fee if a written cancellation notice is received by April 30, 2026. Written notice of cancellation after April 1st is $250 processing fee. No refunds will be issued after May 1st, but access will be available to asynchronous conference content and recordings.

* Limited‑run NWSTC apparel reflecting Oregon Trauma—Seven Regions, One Mission—will be available onsite. *

Wednesday, May 20th

6:30 p.m.     
Registration & Reception

7:00 – 8:30 p.m.    
PhotoVoice Presentation   |   Roy Moore & Nichole Cerra

8:30 – 9:30 p.m.    
Trauma Survivor Patient Story   |   Roy Moore

9:30 p.m.         
Adjourn 

Thursday, May 21st

7:00 a.m.                
Breakfast / Registration 

8:00 – 8:35 a.m.                
Beyond Conventional Resuscitation: ECMO Use in Trauma Patients   |   Natalie A. Drucker, M.D., MS
The first patient who was supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was an adult trauma patient.  However, since then there have been reservations in cannulating patients in hemorrhagic shock with polytrauma, due to concerns about bleeding risk and worsening of other traumatic injuries.  Growing evidence demonstrates that early use of ECMO in trauma patients is safe and effective, and should be considered a tool in the critical care toolbox and not a therapy of last resort.  The purpose of this presentation will be to discuss current recommendations surrounding ECMO in trauma patients. 

8:35 – 9:10 a.m.                
Mass Casualty   |   Mike Casey, M.D.

9:10 – 9:45 a.m.                
Evolving Practice of Spinal Immobilization   |   Jon Jui, M.D.
This talk outlines the evidence‑driven shift from routine spinal immobilization to selective spinal motion restriction (SMR) in trauma care. Traditional use of long spine boards and rigid collars has not been shown to prevent secondary spinal cord injury and is associated with meaningful harms, including pain, pressure injury, respiratory compromise, increased intracranial pressure, airway obstruction, and delays in definitive care. Current North American and international guidelines emphasize patient selection, minimal handling, and using the least restrictive method necessary to limit spinal motion, with long backboards reserved primarily for extrication rather than transport. The presentation reviews decision‑making in blunt versus penetrating trauma, device‑specific evidence, special populations, and global practice trends, reinforcing SMR as a patient‑centered, risk‑reduction strategy rather than a one‑size‑fits‑all intervention.

9:45 – 10:15 a.m.              
Break and Exhibits

10:15 – 10:50 a.m.           
Crack the Chest: Precision, Timing, and Survival in Resuscitative Thoracotomy   |   Dennis Kim, M.D. 
This presentation reviews patient selection and decision‑making for emergency department thoracotomy using the mechanism of injury, physiologic status, and evidence‑based algorithms. The presentation walks through the key procedural steps and highlights common pitfalls, emphasizing precision, timing, and team coordination to maximize survival in this high‑stakes intervention.

10:50 – 11:25 a.m.           
Pancreatic Trauma: The Elusive Injury   |   Alexis Moren, M.D.
Pancreatic trauma is an uncommon but high-morbidity injury that presents significant diagnostic and management challenges. Optimal outcomes depend on early recognition of ductal injury, appropriate use of imaging, and timely selection of operative versus nonoperative management. This session will review current evidence and guideline-based approaches to the evaluation and management of pancreatic injuries, with emphasis on injury grading, operative decision-making, and strategies to reduce pancreatic-related complications.

11:25 – 12:00 p.m.           
Quality Talk   |   Justin Regner, M.D.

12:00 – 1:00 p.m.             
Lunch

1:00 – 1:35 p.m.                
Penetrating Traumatic Brain Injury: Brain Trauma Foundation Guidelines, Second Edition   |   James Wright, M.D.
The Brain Trauma Foundation's second edition guidelines for penetrating traumatic brain injury (pTBI) represent the first comprehensive update in over two decades. Drawing on a systematic literature review and multi-round Delphi consensus from a panel of civilian and military neurosurgeons, this presentation reviews key recommendations across prehospital care, surgical management, and critical care — highlighting what is new, what constitutes established best practice, and where significant evidence gaps remain. Particular emphasis is placed on neurovascular injury as the defining feature of pTBI and the element that most distinguishes it from blunt TBI.

1:35 – 2:10 p.m.                 
Prognosis and Withdrawal of Life‑Sustaining Treatment in Traumatic Brain Injury   |   Berje Shammassian, M.D., MPH, FAANS
This session explores the profound challenges of prognostication in severe traumatic brain injury and the growing role of withdrawal of life‑sustaining treatment (WOLST) in patient outcomes. Participants will examine how uncertainty, bias, and premature conclusions can influence decisions about care, often before true recovery potential is understood. The presentation emphasizes strategies for avoiding incorrect prognostication through multimodal, longitudinal assessments of consciousness and neurologic recovery, providing clinicians with practical tools to support ethically sound, patient‑centered decision‑making in TBI care.

2:10 – 2:45 p.m.                
Trauma Cases from the Bottom of the Earth   |   Jeff Disney, M.D.
This case‑based talk explores trauma care at the South Pole, one of the most isolated and resource‑limited medical environments in the world, where evacuation may be delayed days and advanced imaging is unavailable. After describing the Antarctic mission, population, and medical system — including a single physician, limited diagnostics, and austere staffing — the presenter walks through real trauma cases that illustrate how standard trauma algorithms must be adapted under extreme logistical constraints. Emphasis is placed on physiology‑driven decision‑making, serial exams, risk–benefit analysis of evacuation, and the financial and operational consequences of care decisions. The talk highlights prevention, preparation, and clinical judgment as the most powerful tools in prolonged and remote trauma care.

2:45 – 3:05 p.m.                
Break and Exhibits

3:05 – 3:40 p.m.                
Management of Liver Trauma   |   AJ Hayes, M.D.
Management of Liver Trauma reviews the diagnosis and radiologic grading of hepatic injuries and outlines contemporary decision‑making for both non‑operative and operative management. This presentation discusses indications, techniques, and common complications associated with each approach, with an emphasis on evidence‑based strategies to optimize outcomes in patients with liver trauma.

3:40 – 4:40 p.m.                 
Trauma Survivor Patient Story   |   Albert Chi, M.D. & Patient
This presentation shares a powerful patient perspective on survival, recovery, and the lasting impact of trauma care. Following two life‑threatening injuries caused by impaired drivers, the speaker reflects on the role of the OHSU trauma team in their recovery and the profound influence of compassionate, determined care. This story highlights the life‑saving work of trauma professionals and the enduring motivation to turn survival into purpose, resilience, and service to others.

4:40 – 5:40 p.m.                 
Evaluation / Adjourn

Friday, May 22nd

7:00 a.m.                
Breakfast 

8:00 – 8:35 a.m.               
Injury Prevention Collaboration   |   Shelley Campbell, RN, BSN
This presentation examines how collaborative injury prevention efforts bring together community partners, healthcare professionals, and researchers to implement evidence‑based strategies aimed at reducing both intentional injuries, such as violence, and unintentional injuries, including falls and motor vehicle collisions. These partnerships emphasize shared data, community outreach, and policy initiatives, often leveraging specialized workgroups to address specific focus areas such as fall prevention, gun violence, traffic safety, and drowning prevention.

8:35 – 9:10 a.m.                
EMS Fluid Resuscitation in Trauma Patients & EMS Advanced Airway Management Controversies    |   Jon Jui, M.D.
This session integrates current outcomes evidence on prehospital airway management and trauma resuscitation, focusing on when interventions help—and when they may cause harm. Using data from military and civilian studies, it examines patient selection for advanced airways, the role of supraglottic devices, and the shift toward damage‑control, blood‑first resuscitation strategies. Emphasis is placed on physiologic goals, time‑critical decision‑making, and practical, scenario‑based approaches applicable to modern trauma systems.

9:10 – 9:45 a.m.                
From Resistance to Results: Driving Trauma System Change on Vancouver Island   |   Dennis Kim, M.D.
From Resistance to Results: Driving Trauma System Change on Vancouver Island explores the real‑world challenges of implementing a new trauma program within a complex healthcare environment. This session examines common sources of resistance and presents practical change‑management strategies to build stakeholder engagement across clinical, administrative, and prehospital partners. Through a systems‑focused lens, participants will learn how to translate vision into measurable progress by prioritizing high‑impact initiatives, sequencing implementation effectively, and sustaining momentum—even without formal authority.

9:45 – 10:05 a.m.              
Break and Exhibits

10:05 – 10:40 a.m.           
Patient Case   |   Alexis Moren, M.D. & Jacinta Robenstine, M.D.
This presentation examines the evaluation and management of a trauma patient who presented to Salem Health’s Emergency Department with complex, life‑threatening injuries. After initial assessment, it was determined that the patient’s needs exceeded the facility’s capabilities, prompting stabilization and transfer to OHSU. The case highlights critical decision‑making, interfacility coordination, and the importance of timely transfer to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

10:40 – 11:15 a.m.           
Pediatric Trauma – Taking Care of Injured Children in 2026   |   Lucas McDuffie, M.D.
Caring for injured children requires specialized knowledge, preparation, and teamwork that go beyond adult trauma care. This session will explore current best practices and evolving approaches to pediatric trauma assessment and management, emphasizing physiologic differences, age‑specific considerations, communication, and system readiness. Through practical discussion and real‑world examples, participants will gain increased confidence and comfort in caring for injured pediatric patients across emergency and trauma settings. Designed for nurses, advanced practice providers, physicians, and interdisciplinary trauma team members, this presentation highlights strategies to support high‑quality, consistent care for this vulnerable population. 

11:15 – 11:50 a.m.           
Rethinking Burnout: A Nuanced Conversation   |   Adrian Ramos, AGACNP-BC, FNP-C
Burnout among nurses, physicians, and surgeons is more than exhaustion—it is a cultural and systemic challenge that shapes how healthcare professionals work, think, and experience their roles in patient care. This presentation reframes burnout through a holistic lens, examining both its cultural impact and the personal signs and sensations experienced across clinical disciplines. Drawing on insights from modern philosophy, participants will explore meaningful, hopeful approaches to recovery that move beyond quick fixes and support long‑term resilience and well‑being in clinical practice.

11:50 – 1:00 p.m.              
Lunch

1:00 – 1:35 p.m.                
Pediatric Major Vascular Injury   |   Natalie A. Drucker, M.D., MS
The management of pediatric major vascular injury is difficult for many reasons.  The training of pediatric surgeons and vascular surgeons has diverged significantly over the history of the fields, and this leads to discomfort for vascular surgeons managing children or pediatric surgeons managing vascular surgical issues.  These injuries require prompt management, at least for temporizing measures, as delays can lead to significant morbidity.  Therefore, it is helpful for all hospitals to have some sort of strategy for managing and triaging these patients.  This session will discuss care for these challenging patients and several patient scenarios.

1:35 – 2:10 p.m.                
Acute Spinal Cord Injury: Guidelines, Controversies, and Management at Non-Level I Trauma Centers   |   James Wright, M.D.
The acute management of spinal cord injury is governed by multiple clinical practice guidelines that do not always agree. This presentation compares recommendations from AANS/CNS, AO Spine/PRAXIS, EAST, and WSES/EANS on the three most contested issues in the field — hemodynamic targets, surgical timing, and the role of methylprednisolone — including a focused review of the controversy surrounding the AO Spine/PRAXIS strong recommendation for surgery within 24 hours and the formal AANS/CNS position statement in response. The second half addresses practical stabilization and transfer decision-making for non-Level I trauma centers.

2:10 – 2:45 p.m.                
Rural Trauma   |   Jacinta Robenstine, M.D

2:45 – 3:45 p.m.                 
Trauma Simulation   |   EMS, ECC, Trauma – Justin Regner, M.D. & Jon Jui, M.D.

3:45 – 4:45 p.m.                 
Evaluation / Adjourn

Guest Rooms and Suites

Forest. Ocean. Light. Three elements that feel like the Earth, that feel like Salishan. Surrounded by lush trees and bordered by the wild sea, our tranquil guest rooms and suites wrap you in warm, natural light. From views of towering Douglas firs outside your room to the local timber inside your room, every aspect of your stay embodies the heartbeat of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you want a simple but spacious room with a private balcony and wood fireplace, or an expansive signature suite, Salishan has your home away from home on the Oregon Coast.

Make your lodging reservations with the special NWSTC Room rates: NWSTC26 Online Reservations

*Important* Those who would like to extend their stay outside the conference dates must call the Salishan Coastal Lodge Group Reservation Department at (866) 258-6127 between the times of 8:00 am – 6:00 pm PST and identify themselves as participants of this event to receive the special rates quoted.
• Press #1 for Lodging Reservations
• Then, press #2 for Designated Group Reservations

Continuing Medical Education (CME)

Accreditation: The School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Credit: Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine designates this live activity for a maximum of 12.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Nursing Continuing Professional Development (NCPD) credits

We are in the process of obtaining Nursing Continuing Professional Development (NCPD) credits. 

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Trauma Program is thrilled to present the 37^th Annual Northwest States Trauma Conference, May 20-22^nd  at the Salishan Coastal Lodge in Gleneden Beach, Oregon.  We would like to invite you to display your product(s) at the conference. 

This is a CME-accredited event attended by over 250 physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare providers from rural areas: levels II & III, as well as Critical Access Hospitals throughout the Pacific Northwest, West Coast, Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada. 

The conference will be held in the Long House Ballroom of the Salishan Coastal Lodge. Exhibitors will be in Section C, offering just over 1,500 sq. feet. 

Exhibit Fee is $3,000.00 and includes:

• 6ft table and two chairs/vendors
• Access to power and wireless internet
• Opportunity to interact face-to-face with conference attendees
• Exhibitors are invited to participate in all food and beverage events, including breakfast, lunch, and refreshment breaks
• A sponsorship acknowledgement on the conference website, in the PPT slides that run during breaks and during the opening/closing remarks
• Build visibility for your company in a competitive marketplace
• Expand your customer base and strengthen existing customer relationships
• Introduce new products and services

Exhibit Hours:

• Wednesday, May 20^th, 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
• Thursday, May 21^st, 7:00 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
• Friday, May 22^nd, 7:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 

Payment for the table must be received by Monday, May 11^th, 2026

OHSU Foundation tax ID number: 23-7083114 

Registration will open soon! Invoices are available upon request. 

Please make checks payable to: Oregon Health & Science University Foundation.  

Exhibitor areas will be available for setup on Wednesday, May 20^th, at 10 am. Set up should be complete no later than 5:30 pm. Conference registration and reception with exhibitors will open to participants from 6:30 pm until 9:30 pm. 

Exhibit tables should be taken down no later than 2:30 pm Friday, May 22^nd.

To ensure accurate representation of you and your company/product(s) on our website, please send me the following by Wednesday, May 6^th: 

• JPED, PNG or GIF image file under 24 mb that is sized to 100px by 100px of your company logo
• Documents and/or links to your website and social media accounts
• Anything else you’d like to include or spotlight 

Make your lodging reservations with the special NWSTC Room rates: NWSTC26 Online Reservations

*Important* Those who would like to extend their stay outside the conference dates must call the Salishan Coastal Lodge Group Reservation Department at (866) 258-6127 between the times of 8:00 am – 6:00 pm PST and identify themselves as participants of this event to receive the special rates quoted.

• InvitePress #1 for Lodging Reservations
• Then, press #2 for Designated Group Reservations

Reservation cutoff date is Sunday, April 19^th!

Please contact Elizabeth Herber with any questions. 

National Guest Faculty

Regional & Oregon Trauma Faculty