Contact gunshot wound of the head: diagnosis after surgical debridement of the wound

Journal of Clinical Forensic Medicine
J A Prahlow, J J Barnard

Abstract

A case of homicidal contact gunshot wound of the head is described. The victim survived approximately 1 day and one-half following the shooting, during which time the bullet was recovered during surgery, the injuries were 'well-documented', and surgical debridement of the wound destroyed any visible evidence of gunshot residue on the scalp or underlying bone. Autopsy revealed a skull fragment with soot deposition within the depths of the injured brain, allowing an accurate determination of range-of-fire. The case reiterates the importance of performing autopsies on all homicides.

References

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Nov 14, 1985·The New England Journal of Medicine·T KircherH Burdo
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Dec 3, 1994·Lancet

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