The value of CT scan in gunshot injuries of the brain

Fourteen cases of gunshot wounds of the brain, evaluated by CT scanning are presented. The results indicate that CT scanning is superior to other diagnostic tests in missile wounds of the brain. In individual patients it revealed gross injury to the skull, the location of the bullet or its fragments and indriven bone fragments, the track of the bullet, the gross injury suffered by the brain, the extent of oedema, the presence of any intracranial haematoma and late cerebral atrophy. Visualization of the missile track is of particular importance; this cannot be achieved by any other diagnostic method. It is essential for the planning of the surgical approach in these lesions.