Ballistics: a pathophysiologic examination of the wounding mechanisms of firearms: Part I.

Wounds caused by firearms are a frequent occurrence in urban emergency centers. Understanding of the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in wound production is very important in treatment of these injuries. Part I of this article reports studies on the interaction of projectiles with both the atmosphere and human tissue to produce wounds. Part II will examine the types of wounds formed by specific firearms, and the recent innovations in both weapons and ammunition which are altering the severity of shooting injuries.