Mechanisms involved:
(1) deformation of the armor at the point of impact
(2) dissipation of the projectile's energy
The most common precipitating event is a high energy bullet striking the armor.
Possible injuries:
(1) bruising and hematoma in underlying skin
(2) contusion to or rupture of the spleen
(3) contusion to or rupture of the liver
(4) contusion to heart
(5) blunt trauma to the spinal cord or peripheral nerve
(6) rupture of distended bowel
(7) contusion to the lung
(8) fracture of underlying bone
(9) contusion or rupture of distended urinary bladder
(10) contusion to the kidney
Cannon (2001) recommended overnight observation in the hospital for BABT, with the following evaluation:
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Site of Impact
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Monitorings
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thorax
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serial chest X-rays
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cardiac region
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serial ECG and serum cardiac enzymes
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abdomen
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serial examinations for peritoneal irritation
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