Objectives: Gunshot wounds (GSW) affecting the genitourinary (GU) system in civilians are uncommon. This study describes the incidence, anatomic distribution, demographics, associated injuries, management, and outcomes after civilian GU GSW.
Methods: A Level 1 Trauma Center Registry was used to retrospectively identify all patients who sustained GU GSW (January 1997-December 2008). Patient information was abstracted from the Registry, medical, and autopsy records. Multivariate regression detected significant factors associated with mortality.
Results: Of 2941 civilian GSW patients, 309 (10.5%) sustained GU injury with/without associated injuries. Mean age was 30.4 ± 11.9 years (range 6.6-80.6 years); 289 patients (93.5%) were male. Mean Injury Severity Score (ISS) 22.2 ± 15.4 (1-75). Incidence of GU GSW increased during the study period. GSW affected the kidneys (55%), scrotum (21%), bladder (19%), testicle (12%), penis (8%), some patients having more than 1 GU organ injured. A total of 284 patients (92%) experienced at least 1 other organ injury. Most GU GSW were managed surgically (mean 2.2 ± 2.0; 0-13 surgeries/patient). There was a 27% (n = 84) overall mortality, with 16% (n = 50) dead on arrival. Mortality and ISS were correlated (P = 0.002; hazard ratio = 3.0; 95% confidence interval 3.0-3.0CI). Large vessel, head/neck, kidney, vascular, heart, lung, spine, and spinal cord injury were statistically significant risk factors for death.
Conclusions: GU injury occurred in 10.5% of 2941 civilian GSW patients. Associated injuries were very common, with many cases involving multiple organs. Most injuries (90%) were managed surgically. Mortality is usually the result of associated nongenitourinary injuries. A high index of suspicion for injuries affecting other organs is necessary in managing GU GSW trauma patients.
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