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Article
Cardiac Pneumatic Nail Gun Injury
The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Jason P. Straus, Wright State University
  • Randy J. Woods, Wright State University
  • Mary C. McCarthy, Wright State University
  • Mark P. Anstadt, Wright State University
  • Nancy Kwon
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-1-2006
Abstract

Pneumatic nail guns deliver discrete, low-velocity penetrating trauma causing limited injury.1 Kinetic energy is centered on the nail’s advancing tip, and therefore such injuries are similar to stab wounds. This is reflected in the 11% mortality rate after accidental discharges. Mortality rates might, however, exceed 40% when these injuries are self-inflicted.1 and 2 In the case presented the patient attempted suicide, shooting himself 17 times in the chest with a pneumatic nail gun. The optimal diagnostic and therapeutic approach to this unusual injury is described.

DOI
10.1016/j.jtcvs.2006.04.030
Citation Information
Jason P. Straus, Randy J. Woods, Mary C. McCarthy, Mark P. Anstadt, et al.. "Cardiac Pneumatic Nail Gun Injury" The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Vol. 132 Iss. 3 (2006) p. 702 - 703 ISSN: 0022-5223
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/mary_mccarthy/106/