Bullet retrieval from the cauda equina after penetrating spinal injury: A case report and review of the literature.

ABSTRACT:

Background

When gunshot injuries occur to the spine, bullet fragments may be retained within the spinal canal. Indications for bullet removal include incomplete spinal cord injury, progressive loss of neurologic function including injury to the cauda equina, and dural leaks with impending risk of meningitis.

Case description

Here, we present a 34-year-old male with a missile penetrating spinal injury to the cauda equina. In addition to the computed tomography scan demonstrating retention of a bullet in the left L1/2 disc space, the scan suggested likely dural injury. The patient underwent a decompression/instrumented fusion with retrieval of the retained bullet fragment. A laminectomy was performed from T12 to L3, and at L1 and L2, a large traumatic durotomy was identified a

SUBMITTER: Ojukwu DI 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8088496 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature