Bullet Aspiration and Spontaneous Expectoration After Gunshot Wound to Trachea

Abstract

A young adult male suffered a combat gunshot wound to his anterior trachea, which resulted in bullet migration, via aspiration, to the point of lodgment in the right upper lobe bronchus. He subsequently spontaneously expectorated the intact bullet, a first report of such events. A bronchoscopy was then performed confirming the site of entry, position of previous lodgment, and lack of further pathology. A brief discussion of expected findings, management, and complications are discussed.