Femoral artery embolization of a thoracic stray bullet

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular surgery
• Trauma surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Thoracic gunshot wounds present complex diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly when arterial bullet embolization occurs.
• The absence of an exit wound in thoracic trauma necessitates heightened clinical suspicion for internal injuries, including vascular complications.

Observation:

• A patient with a thoracic gunshot wound and a 7.62 × 39-mm bullet injury was managed.
• The bullet, originating from a thoracic injury, migrated and embolized distally to the femoral artery.

Findings:

• Arterial bullet embolization from a thoracic injury is a rare but critical complication.
• Successful identification and management of bullet emboli are crucial for patient outcomes.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering bullet embolization in thoracic gunshot wound patients, even without an obvious exit wound.
• Advanced imaging and a multidisciplinary approach are vital for managing such complex vascular injuries.