Caring for Patients with Ballistic Injuries to the Face

Kerry P. Latham, MD

The face is a unique and intricate structure, not only critical for vital functions including breathing, eating, and speaking, but also central to identity, expression, and interpersonal interaction. Ballistic injuries to the face, resulting from firearms or explosive devices, present a formidable challenge to surgeons dedicated to facial reconstruction. These injuries often involve devastating tissue destruction, functional compromise, and profound psychological impact. As such, their management demands a multidisciplinary approach, combining the principles of trauma care, reconstructive surgery, and psychosocial support.

This issue of Seminars in Plastic Surgery is dedicated to the goal of providing surgeons with practical information for the evaluation and management of patients with ballistic injuries to the face. The articles in this issue address key aspects of care, beginning with the acute management of ballistic facial injuries, soft tissue management, craniofacial injuries and surgical planning techniques and principles. Special topics including care of pediatric patents, patients with self-inflicted GSWs and combat injuries are also covered. Through meticulous planning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and compassionate care, we set forth to restore not only form and function but also hope and dignity to these patients.

I would like to thank Seminars in Plastic Surgery and Dr. Edward P. Buchanan for selecting this important topic for this issue. I extend my deepest gratitude to the contributing authors for their expertise and dedication, and to our readers for their commitment to advancing the field of plastic surgery and for the care they provide to the survivors of facial ballistic injuries.

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