MANAGEMENT OF GUNSHOT INJURIES IN THE MAXILLOFACIAL REGION: A REVIEW

*Dr. Abhishek Sharma, Dr. Vishal Bansal, Dr. Prajesh Dubey and Dr. Kunal Marwah

ABSTRACT

As the use of firearms have become more prevalent in society, both the numbers of homicidal and suicidal victims has increased. Injuries from gunshot wounds of the face and neck, vary in extent and significance, forming a spectrum from trivial to life-endangering situations. The face and the neck have many vital structures confined to a small area of the body, and hence, it has a greater potential of leading to a fatality in the event of trauma. The severity of impact varies upon type of weapon and closeness of the shot. Management in terms of surgical exploration and removal of bullet or conservative management leaving bullet in-situ, is still a matter of debate. The initial care of facial gunshot wounds strictly adheres to the basics of trauma resuscitation. Early and appropriate surgical management have proved to be influential on the final outcome and aesthetic result. Treatment of gunshot injuries should be planned and carried out carefully. It takes different stages and procedures to achieve the targeted treatment plan. Prevention and control of infection are important in the success of the treatment.

Keywords: Firearms, Gunshot wounds, Trauma resuscitation.