Absorption of missile energy in soft tissue

Soft tissue wounds caused by spherical steel projectiles at various impact velocities have been studied. Energy absorption by the penetrated tissues and the size, form and location of the maximum of the temporary cavity are discussed on the basis of theoretical calculations. Morphological and angiographic findings support the assumption that steel spheres hitting at high velocity cause most damage near the beginning of the wound channel. The possible occurrence of transonic strong shock waves above certain velocity limits and their role in increasing the destructive effects of the temporary cavity, are discussed.