Incidence, pattern and outcome of stray bullet injuries: three years' experience in a teaching institute

Abstract

Sohail Amir*, Shahid Ayub and Mushtaq

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to better define incidence, pattern, and outcome of stray bullet.

Material and methods: The current study summarizes the data on stray bullet injuries presenting to the emergency department Hayatabad medical complex, Peshawar, from January 2016 to November 2020. A total of 24 subjects were included for three years. We enrolled all patient who had head or spine injuries caused by stray bullet. Data were extracted on Demographic profile, site of injury, operative procedure, complication and mortality, were recorded on prescribed proforma. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 and presented in tabulated form.

Results: A total of 24 subjects were included for 3 years.17 (70%) were male patients and 7 (30%) were females. Male to female ratio was 2:1. out of 24 cases 9 (37.5%) from district Peshawar, 3 (12.5%) cases from Mardan and Charsadda district, and 2 (8.3%) cases from Swat. 12 cases had bullet in Head and face. out of which 7 were supratentorial 3 cases had bullet in the posterior fossa. Out of 24 cases, 13 (54.1%) were operated for the removal of bullets.5 (20.8%) developed focal or generalized fits. 13 (54.1%) developed neuro deficit. 4 (16.6%) of cases remain in vegetative state, and overall mortality rate is 20%. Conclusion: Morbidity and mortality due to stray bullets is an increasing problem in our society. The aim of this study is to bring awareness among the concerned authorities to try and bring an end to this menace resulting in deaths and misery.

Conclusion: Morbidity and mortality due to stray bullets is an increasing problem in our society. The aim of this study is to bring awareness among the concerned authorities to try and bring an end to this menace resulting in deaths and misery.