Gunshot Fractures to the Limbs: A Review of Fixation Methods

Abstract

Background: The authors had intensive experience with gunshot fractures in wounded civilian and military in the war against organized crime in Rio de Janeiro. From the many difficulties and controversies, came the necessity to search for scientific evidence to establish management and treatment to these challenging injuries. Purpose: Make a revision about fixation methods in the management and treatment of gunshot fractures to the limbs. Material and methods/results: The author researched the combination of the terms "Fractures", "Gunshot", "Treatment", "Fixation" and "Orthopedic Surgery" in MEDLINE, PUBMED, SCIELO and LILACS. Conclusion: Gunshot fractures Grade Gustillo I and II can be treated with debridement plus immediately/early internal fixation; Fixation methods remain controversial in Gustillo III fractures. More high level studies are necessary to establish protocols in Gustillo III gunshot fractures.