Stab wounds of the skull

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Penetrating head trauma from stab wounds presents unique challenges.
• Managing impaled objects requires careful consideration of vascular and neurological structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a series of 16 cases of penetrating head stab wounds with the blade retained.
• To discuss indications for cerebral angiography in identifying vascular injury.
• To describe a technique for safe removal of the impaled object.

Main Methods:

• Review of 16 cases of penetrating head stab wounds with in-situ blades.
• Assessment of indications for cerebral angiography.
• Description of a surgical technique for blade removal.

Main Results:

• Cerebral angiography was utilized to evaluate vascular integrity.
• A spectrum of clinical presentations was observed.
• A safe removal technique was successfully employed in all cases.
• No fatalities occurred among the reviewed patients.

Conclusions:

• Penetrating head stab wounds with retained blades can be managed safely.
• Cerebral angiography is a valuable tool for assessing vascular injury.
• A systematic approach to removal can prevent further complications.