Stray bullet as a cardiac embolism

Abstract

Bullet embolism is a relatively uncommon complication of gunshot injuries. Migration of bullets through bodily vessels presents unique clinical challenges and can lead to infection, thrombosis, ischemia, hemorrhage, and death. Potential lack of early symptoms leads to delayed or missed diagnosis and often-inadequate early management can potentially result in the loss of extremities or life. In this paper is presented an unusual case in which a stray bullet to the posterior aspect of the left side of the chest penetrated the thoracic cavity and traveled to the left femoral artery through the left ventricle, embolizing the vessel. The bullet was surgically removed from the left common femoral artery.