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Gunshot wounds are a public health concern all around the world. The forensic pathologist is often required to identify gunshot wounds, the direction and the distance of fire, the manner of injury - suicidal, homicidal, or accidental, and determine the nature and type of firearm. This activity will provide an overview of gunshot wound evaluation and assessment, leading to improved patient care and outcomes. Objectives: Outline the pathophysiology of gunshot wounds. Review the epidemiology of gunshot wounds and their burden on the health industry. Summarize the systematic examination of gunshot wounds to effectively assist law enforcement. Identify appropriate investigations for the criminal investigation of gunshot wounds. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Gunshot wounds are complex, violent, traumatic injuries commonly encountered in forensic practice. These injuries are caused by penetration of the body with projectiles ejected from a barrel due to the ignition of gunpowder. The study of these injuries is also called wound ballistics.[1] In addition to the injury and the projectile, forensic pathologists must have a working knowledge of the flame, gases, smoke, unburnt powder, metal scrapings, and grease from the barrel that accompanies the projectile and could become embedded in the surrounding skin or the injury tract. The injuries caused by the projectile can affect the permanent cavity, the damaged tissues along the path followed by the projectile, as well as the temporary cavity, the tissue surrounding the permanent cavity that is subject to temporary forces, including radial acceleration, shear, stretch, and compression. While the forces causing the temporary cavity act only briefly, the results can be long-lasting. The Forensic Pathologists examining a gunshot wound should document the type, size, shape, site, and location, like in any other injury. Also, they are required to investigate and deliberate the cause and manner of the injury, the entry and exit characteristics, distance and direction of fire, and the vitality of the wound. Gunshot injuries may result in death due to hemorrhage, organ damage, and wound infection. This information can be extremely important in determining the manner of injury, especially in fatal wounds, to assist medico-legal and criminal investigations on whether the injury was suicidal or homicidal.[2] It is also essential to identify the path taken by the projectile to help determine the prognosis, workup, and treatment of gunshot wounds.[3]