Localization and retrieval of bullets under ultrasound guidance.

From May 1985 to February 1986, high-frequency B-mode real-time ultrasound examinations proved helpful in localizing bullets that were not palpable externally in the extremities and body wall of six patients. Of these, four patients had bullets removed successfully with the ultrasonically guided needle puncture technique. The entire procedure was carried out independently at the bedside by the surgical team. We further concluded that surgeons would benefit by learning and using ultrasound, a technique that is relatively easy to acquire and that has broad potential for surgical application, especially in the operating room.