Indications for bullet removal: overview of the literature, and clinical practice guidelines for European trauma surgeons

Dienstknecht, T. and Horst, K. and Sellei, R. M. and Berner, A. and Nerlich, M. and Hardcastle, T. C. (2012) Indications for bullet removal: overview of the literature, and clinical practice guidelines for European trauma surgeons. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TRAUMA AND EMERGENCY SURGERY, 38 (2). pp. 89-93. ISSN 1863-9933, 1863-9941

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Abstract

The incidence of gunshot wounds from civilian firearms is increasing. Despite this fact, guidelines on indications for bullet removal are scarce. In this analysis, we combine an overview of the available literature in these rare entities with our experiences in our own clinical practices. We conducted a systematic literature search of computerized bibliographic databases (Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register). The local experience of the authors was reviewed in light of the available literature. 145 full-text articles were suitable for further evaluation. Only six retrospective studies were available, and no prospective study could be retrieved. Most of the articles were case reports. In the South African co-author's own clinical practice, approximately 800 patients are treated per year with gunshot wounds. In summary, there are only a few clear indications for bullet removal. These include bullets found in joints, CSF, or the globe of the eye. Fragments leading to impingement on a nerve or a nerve root, and bullets lying within the lumen of a vessel, resulting in a risk of ischemia or embolization, should be removed. Rare indications are lead poisoning caused by a fragment, and removal that is required for a medico-legal examination. In all other cases the indication should be critically reviewed.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: GUNSHOT WOUNDS; SURGICAL-TREATMENT; LEBANESE CONFLICT; RETAINED BULLET; INJURIES; FRAGMENTS; EXTRACTION; STRATEGIES; MANAGEMENT; ARTHRITIS; Bullet removal; Gunshot wounds; Missile; Fragment
Subjects: 600 Technology > 610 Medical sciences Medicine
Divisions: Medicine > Lehrstuhl für Unfallchirurgie
Depositing User: Dr. Gernot Deinzer
Date Deposited: 15 May 2020 07:02
Last Modified: 15 May 2020 07:02
URI: https://pred.uni-regensburg.de/id/eprint/18923

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