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Semin Plast Surg 2015; 29(01): 010-019
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1544173
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Ballistic Trauma: Lessons Learned from Iraq and Afghanistan

Emily H. Shin
1   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Hand Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
2   The Curtis National Hand Center at MedStar Union Memorial, Baltimore, Maryland
,
Jennifer M. Sabino
3   Department of General Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
,
George P. Nanos III
1   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Hand Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
,
Ian L. Valerio
4   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
5   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Division of Burn, Wound, and Trauma, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
04 February 2015 (online)

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Abstract

Management of upper extremity injuries secondary to ballistic and blast trauma can lead to challenging problems for the reconstructive surgeon. Given the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, advancements in combat-casualty care, combined with a high-volume experience in the treatment of ballistic injuries, has led to continued advancements in the treatment of the severely injured upper extremity. There are several lessons learned that are translatable to civilian trauma centers and future conflicts. In this article, the authors provide an overview of the physics of ballistic injuries and principles in the management of such injuries through experience gained from military involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Keywords

ballistic trauma - blast - combat - casualty - upper extremity trauma
 

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