Gunshot injuries of the soft and bony tissues of the face

A classification of wounds into penetrating, avulsive and perforating, applied to the face and neck region is given. The results of the management of 60 patients with gunshot injuries treated in Gondar College of Medical Sciences Hospital in 1987-1988 are evaluated. In all cases there was soft tissue damage associated with comminuted fractures of the facial bones. Primary wound healing was possible in 31 patients. Complicated wound repair was needed in 22 cases. Open wound management with secondary suturing was performed in 4; the other 3 casualties died of brain damage. Differences from the treatment of combat wounds in the extremities are pointed out. All salvageable soft tissue of the face and neck region should be preserved, and methods of intraosseous suturing of fractured facial bones, craniofacial suspension, and compression osteosynthesis can be applied.