Citation

Durchholz C. Notarzt 2003; 19(4): 155-157.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003)

DOI

10.1055/s-2003-41170

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Injuries caused by bolt-pistol is a serious type of severe head injury. The following case shows a 65-year old man using a bolt pistol for suicide. The mechanism of this gun is described. After firing the bolt is withdrawn by compressed air or a spring. The punched out skin-bone-fragment exceeds the length of the penetrating bolt because it acts as a "secondary bullet" in the tissue. Therefore severeness and depth of the damage caused by described mechanism should not be underestimated at scene. Main purpose of the prehospital management is stabilizing vital functions.

Language: de

Keywords

Attempted suicide; Bolt pistol; Severe head injury