Classification of Sherman and Parrish for Shotgun Wounds

A shotgun wound can be classified based on the depth of pellet penetration and the estimated firing range.

Type of Wound	Injury	Mortality Rate
0	superficial, with penetration of skin only	0%
I	penetrates into subcutaneous tissue and reaches deep fascia	0 – 5%
II	pellets penetrate beyond the deep fascia	15 – 20%
III	extensive tissue damage	85 – 90%

Type of Wound	Range with Standard Barrel Shotgun	Range with "Sawed-off" Shotgun
0	> 12 meters	> 4 meters
I	> 12 meters	> 4 meters
II	5 – 12 meters	2 – 4 meters
III	< 5 meters	< 2 meters

Limitations:

• Wounds of Type 0 or I can be serious if located in the chest or face.

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