Bullet trajectory detection in the lung: Multiplanar reformatted imaging of multidetector computed tomography in...

Trauma is a leading cause of childhood injuries. Although blunt traumas in children are more common in penetrating traumas, children in civilian life and near conflict areas can often be affected by gunshot wounds. Among all gunshot wounds, thoracic injuries constitute a significant proportion. In our study, we detected bullet trajectory in children with gunshot wounds penetrating the thorax by analyzing reformatted images of multidetector computed tomography (CT).

Nineteen pediatric patients with thoracic gunshot wounds were evaluated retrospectively. After all patients admitted the emergency service, their hemodynamics were stabilized first. Then, PA-AC radiography and thorax CT were taken and necessary imaging studies of other body parts were performed. CT scans were performed with multi-detector CT.

Using reformatted axial, sagittal, and coronal and oblique images of multidetector CT, we detected projectile trajectory in the lung parenchyma in 74% of patients. In 26% of the patients, the projectile trajectory could not be detected due to excessive parenchymal hemorrhage, hemothorax, and pneumothorax.

In our study, a standard could not be made due to the fact that the types of weapons used could not be determined, the firing distances could not be known, different ages and different bullet entry and exit angles. However, detecting the trajectory of the bullet in the lungs will assist the physician in making the treatment plan and following up the patient. In addition, the evaluation of the data obtained will be beneficial to forensic medicine physicians and scientists interested in wound ballistics.