Embolization by Bullet Dislodged from the Heart

Abstract

Embolization by a dislodged projectile is a rare complication that may occur in cases of gunshot cardiac injuries. We report a case of a firearm projectile cardiac injury that evolved, with dislocation of the projectile during cardiac surgery, into embolization of the right external carotid artery.

Traumatic Mitral Regurgitation From Intracardiac Bullet Fragments With Bullet Embolism to the Brain

“…Bullet embolization such as this is a very rare complication, occurring in only 0.3% of gunshot wounds to the heart. 4 Although often the first choice of imaging, x-ray and CT are very limited in their ability to demonstrate hemodynamic changes and valvular damage from intracardiac trauma. Additionally, trauma patients may be too unstable to obtain this imaging.…”