Gunshot injuries: pathophysiology and treatments

The increase in gun ownership and shootings of dogs and cats in urban and rural areas has made it important for veterinarians to be familiar with the treatment of gunshot injuries. The damage inflicted on the soft tissues and bone depends on the type of firearm used and the range at which it was fired. Proper initial evaluation and management are critical in the treatment of these injuries. Fractures caused by gunshots are contaminated and can often be stabilized with external fixation. Complications and special considerations of these fractures and associated soft tissue injuries are discussed.