A gunshot wound may be mimicked by a number of conditions.
Source of Wound
When to Suspect
trocar wound from embalming
The body has been at a funeral home.
trocar wound from chest tube
The patient has been treated at a hospital.
wound at intravascular catheter insertion site
The patient has received medical care.
compound rib fracture with retraction of bone fragments
The patient has fallen or had significant blunt trauma.
It is necessary to exclude a gunshot even if another cause is suspected. This is done by:
(1) complete external exam of the body and clothing to exclude exit wounds and signs of powder residue
(2) radiographic exam of the body
(3) internal examination to document all injuries
(4) complete investigation of whereabouts prior to the examination
(5) insisting that all medical devices be left in situ
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Specialty: Clinical Laboratory, Surgery, orthopedic, Emergency Medicine, Surgery, general
ICD-10: ,
