@article{ref1,
title="Gunshot injuries to the extremities: experience of a U.K. trauma centre",
journal="Injury",
year="2005",
author="Persad, I. J. and Reddy, R. Suseela and Saunders, M. A. and Patel, Jigisha",
volume="36",
number="3",
pages="407-411",
abstract="BACKGROUND:: The Metropolitan Police figures suggest an increase in the incidence of injuries related to gun crime. We conducted a retrospective analysis of extremity gunshot injuries over a five-year period. Our aim is to report on our (1) incidence, (2) complications and (3) experience in treating these injuries. METHODS:: Over a five-year period (1998-2002), 70 extremity gunshot injuries in 61 patients were identified from a trauma register and case notes reviewed retrospectively. The following were identified and analysed: type of injury (low or high-energy transfer), treatment (early/late), complications, patient demographics and compliance. RESULTS:: There was a four-fold increase in incidence. Our incidence correlated well with The Metropolitan Police figures (r = 0.93). One-third of our injuries were managed non-operatively and on an outpatient basis. Complications were as follows: eight wound infections, one fracture non-union, one compartment syndrome, one vascular injury and five nerve injuries. Compliance was excellent for high-energy transfer injuries. CONCLUSION:: Extremity gunshot injuries are on an increase in the United Kingdom highlighting the need for trauma surgeons' knowledge of the management of these injuries. Complications can be reduced to a minimum if the basic principles of management are strictly adhered to.",
language="",
issn="0020-1383",
doi="10.1016/j.injury.2004.08.003",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.injury.2004.08.003"
}