Serial computerized tomographic scan and a model gunshot wound of the head

The authors document their experience with the computerized tomographic (CT) scan technique for evaluating a model gunshot wound of the head. In the preoperative period, the CT scan is useful for identifying and localizing the missile track, any long, metallic fragments, intra and extraparenchymal hematomas, intracranial air, and brain edema. The limitations of the CT scan in evaluating a gunshot wound include an inability to define vascular lesions, such as traumatic aneurysm and post-traumatic spasm. Metallic scatter from missile fragments may also render certain CT cuts uninterpretable. The CT scan can, however, help to determine the nature of intracranial lesions. Thus, it is invaluable for the rational planning of surgical therapy. (author)