Extraction of a TASER 7 Barb Embedded in the Supraorbital Frontal Bone: A Clinical Case Report.

Abstract

Hand-held conducted energy devices, such as the TASER 7 (Axon Enterprise, Inc), are commonly used by law enforcement as a method of "non-lethal" force. However, their use may result in serious injuries. The authors report a case where a TASER 7 barb became embedded in the left supraorbital frontal bone during a field incident. Initial removal attempts were unsuccessful when the cylindrical cartridge broke off. Ultimately, the barb was successfully removed at bedside with a Kocher clamp and firm, constant in-line traction under local anesthesia at a tertiary hospital. This case highlights the potential complications associated with conducted energy devices and provides a bedside removal technique that avoids the need for operative intervention.