178 Damage Control Surgery in Severe Ballistic Trauma

Introduction

Severe ballistic lesions are the cause of hemodynamic disorders and early coagulopathy causing a high mortality rate, their management needs to be adapted to each situation.

Materials & Methods

This retrospective study aims to evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of abbreviated laparotomy and early re-exploration. It includes patients suffering from severe ballistic injuries who had to undergo a Damage Control Surgery (DCS) due to a high severity trauma score. Moreover, morbidity and mortality rates were analysed.

Results

The sample included 73 male patients with an average age of 31years.

Most patients suffered from haemorrhagic shock 74%, respiratory distress 40%, and peritoneal contamination 63%. The severity score was 64. After (DCS), the re-exploration was impossible in certain cases. The mortality rate was 28, 8%.

Conclusion

Abbreviated laparotomy and DCS are effective practices for stabilizing victims of gunshot and maintaining the function and integrity of the organism.