E C Thompson1, E F Block, M C Mancini. 1. Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to review our experience with BB shot injuries to the heart. DESIGN: This is a retrospective chart review. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three patients were found to have BB injuries to the heart. All patients were stable upon presentation. Echocardiography localized the BB pellets to the muscular septum. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: All patients were treated with nonoperative therapy. There was not mortality. One patient developed an interventricular conduction delay that resolved before discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Nonoperative management of stable patients who present with BB wounds to the heart is safe and effective if the BB is intramuscular. An echocardiogram should be used to localize the pellets and evaluate the pericardium.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to review our experience with BB shot injuries to the heart. DESIGN: This is a retrospective chart review. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three patients were found to have BB injuries to the heart. All patients were stable upon presentation. Echocardiography localized the BB pellets to the muscular septum. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: All patients were treated with nonoperative therapy. There was not mortality. One patient developed an interventricular conduction delay that resolved before discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Nonoperative management of stable patients who present with BB wounds to the heart is safe and effective if the BB is intramuscular. An echocardiogram should be used to localize the pellets and evaluate the pericardium.