Gunshot injuries in the neck area: ballistics elements and forensic issues.

The neck is an interesting structure as far as penetrating trauma is concerned because of the multiple vital structures that are concentrated in a small anatomic area. Gunshot wounding is an interaction between the penetrating projectile, the anatomy of the wounded subject, and the chance occurrences that determine the exact missile path. The mass and velocity of the projectile establish the upper limit of possible tissue damage. Management of gunshot neck injuries depends on a clear understanding of the anatomy of the neck. The radiologist can contribute substantially to the successful treatment of the patient with a gunshot wound. Important analysis includes the assessment of the missile path in emergency conditions by using plain film and multidetector row computed tomography. The radiologist further evaluates the extent of wounding by determining missile fragmentation and secondary missile paths.