Retained, asymptomatic bullet in D11-D12 intervertebral disc space : A Case Report

摘要

We report a 34-year-old constable, who presented with low-velocity gunshot injury in his right flank. Neuroimaging localised the bullet in the Thoracic (D) 11-12 intervertebral disc space and neurological examination found no abnormalities. The patient was managed conservatively and is asymptomatic at thirty months of follow up till date. Introduction Gun shot injuries to the spine are mainly caused by suicides, accidents and assaults. These vary in proportion depending on the geographical location. Incidence of gunshot injuries perforating and being trapped within the spinal canal and intervertebral disc space is rare. Here, we present a case of gun shot injury with a bullet in the intervertebral disc space with normal neurological status at presentation and at subsequent follow ups till date. Case report A 34-year-old, moderately built and nourished male constable working in the narcotics regulation department presented to the emergency room with low-velocity gunshot injury in his right flank region. The patient was conscious and physical examination revealed no abnormalities except for entry wound of the bullet on his right flank, with no exit wound. Neurological examination was found to be normal.