Gunshot Wound Review

Finite Element Analysis and Modeling of a .38 Lead Round Nose Ballistic Gelatin Test

“…The mechanisms of bullet injury include the laceration and crushing of tissues forced apart, shockwaves due to compression of medium in front of the missile, and formation of the wound cavity [12]. Wounding capacity is directly related to kinetic energy and the formation of the temporary and permanent cavity.…”

“…The TC is formed when the projectile strikes the tissue and accelerates radially away from entry [12]. TC's effect will greatly depend on the type of tissue and its elasticity [7].…”

“…The force of the TC separates tissues that cannot be displaced, and momentarily pushes tissue aside that can be displaced. The location and arrangement of the small blood vessels in this tissue determines which vessels will most likely tear and ultimately help determine the overall bullets effectiveness [12]. The actual clinical effect of the TC is variable and according to some researchers the TC's effect is overstated.…”

“…According to Fackler, the best treatment with uncomplicated healing is excising the visibly damaged tissue and leaving the wound open for 4-7 days after surgery [12]. This allows the new capillaries to grow without any interruption and allows the bacteria to be expelled naturally without having the body to work overtime.…”

“…Leaving the wound open decreases the chance of microvascular dysfunction occurring and lessens the possibility of further tissue necrosis. However, -it is seldom possible for even the most experienced surgeon to be able to identify with certainty the line of demarcation between tissue that will survive and which will not‖ [12]. A better way to analyze and understand bullet wounds could increase the certainty of distinguishing the line of demarcation.…”