Bullet removal from the infratemporal fossa

Area of Science:

• Maxillofacial Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• War injuries are fundamental to the development of maxillofacial surgery.
• Each case presents unique surgical challenges.

Observation:

• A 30-year-old male presented with a gunshot wound, severe pain, and limited mouth opening.
• Preoperative imaging revealed a bullet lodged in the infratemporal fossa with an extensive trajectory.

Findings:

• Three distinct surgical approaches were employed for bullet extraction.
• The successful removal was achieved via the third attempted approach, aided by C-arm imaging.

Implications:

• This case underscores the complexity of treating deep-seated ballistic injuries in the maxillofacial region.
• The successful outcome demonstrates the adaptability and persistence required in advanced surgical interventions for trauma.