The long-term outcome of retained foreign bodies in pediatric gunshot wounds.

The purpose of this retrospective review was to determine the long-term consequences of retained bullet foreign bodies in children after gunshot injury. All children managed for gunshot wounds at an urban, level I pediatric trauma center were evaluated, identifying those discharged with retained bullet foreign bodies. Overall, 244 children were treated for gunshot wounds, 107 (44%) had retained foreign bodies, 24 (22%) experienced long-term complications related to retained foreign bodies, and 14 (13%) required removal. Complications occur in a significant subset of pediatric patients with retained bullets. Prophylactic bullet removal appears unnecessary, although close outpatient follow-up is warranted.