Introduction to Ballistic Injuries

Abstract

Firearm-related trauma in the United States is a public health crisis with increasing rates of gun-mortality annually. Within the United States, minorities are disproportionally affected by firearms, and nonmedical factors play a significant role in predicting an individual's risk for experiencing gun trauma. Devastating injuries associated with head gunshot wounds often require care from multidisciplinary teams to achieve favorable outcomes. Despite collaborative care, complications after firearm injuries transcend beyond physical damage and result in lasting psychological, social, and economic burdens. This article reviews ballistic terminology, epidemiology, social determinants of health, and the quality of life of gunshot wound survivors.

Keywords

gunshot wound - GSW - ballistics - ballistic injuries - plastic surgeons - quality of life - trauma - social determinants of health

Note

USU-WRNMMC Surgery: The opinions or assertions contained herein are the private ones of the author/speaker and are not to be construed as official or reflecting the views of the Department of Defense, the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences or any other agency of the U.S. Government.

Publication History

Article published online:
26 March 2025

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