Bullet Migration from Fascial Space of Femoral Vein to Common Iliac Vein Bifurcation

Abstract

Introduction: Migration of a retained bullet in the body is rare. Some studies have reported regarding embolism induced by intravascular bullet migration. Here we present a case of lead bullet migration through the external surface of the right femoral vein. Case Report: A 31-year-old male was referred to our department for clinical forensic medical evaluation. He was assaulted while working at his office and thus was subsequently taken to the emergency department. Physical examination revealed that the bullet first entered from the left thigh and passed through the medial part of the right thigh with its own kinetic energy, and after 7 h, it passively moved up to the common iliac vein via the femoral space of the right femoral vein. Conclusion: This case report is important as it demonstrated that the lead bullet retained in the body may have passively migrated toward proximal and abdomen via the external surface of the vein between the fascia and intermuscular structures.