Femoral artery embolization of a thoracic stray bullet

Abstract

Arterial bullet embolization after a thoracic gunshot wound represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The absence of an apparent exit wound should alert the clinician. Cardiac bullet injuries are mostly fatal. However, in some cases, patients may remain stable, and conservative management can be an acceptable strategy. We present a case report of a 7.62- × 39-mm thoracic stray bullet that embolized to the femoral artery.