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Updated: Jul 31, 2026
11:28
A Coupled Experiment-finite Element Modeling Methodology for Assessing High Strain Rate Mechanical Response of Soft Biomaterials
Published on: May 18, 2015
Delayed reaction to shrapnel retained in soft tissue
S Eylon1, R Mosheiff, M Liebergall
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical School, P.O. Box 12000, Jerusalem il-91120, Israel.
Injury
|January 25, 2005
Summary
Retained shrapnel in soft tissues usually does not require removal. However, rare delayed reactions can occur years later, necessitating surgical intervention for these metal fragments.
Area of Science:
- Trauma surgery
- Orthopedic surgery
- Wound healing
Background:
- Penetrating injuries often leave shrapnel embedded in soft tissues.
- Surgical excision of shrapnel is typically not required as metals are generally inert.
Observation:
- Four patients presented with delayed reactions to long-retained shrapnel in their limbs.
- These reactions manifested many years after the initial injury.
Findings:
- The delayed reactions to embedded metal fragments required surgical treatment.
- Surgical findings associated with these late complications were highly unusual.
Implications:
- While non-surgical management is standard for embedded shrapnel, clinicians must consider potential late complications.
- Awareness of these rare scenarios is crucial for appropriate patient management and surgical planning.
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