Abstract
BackgroundIsolated scrotal gunshot injuries are uncommon. Even more so when they are self-inflicted. The extent of the injury is determined by the caliber of the weapon. Established management protocols when followed yields excellent results. Case presentationsWe present two male patients, aged 41 and 51 years old, who sustained gunshot injuries to the scrotum following accidental discharges from hand guns stored in their trouser pockets. The first (41 years) sustained grade 5 American Association for Surgery of Trauma (AAST) left testicular injury and was managed by unilateral orchidectomy. The second (51 years old) sustained bilateral grade 4 AAST testicular injuries and had both testes salvaged by primary repair after meticulous debridement.ConclusionIsolated scrotal gunshot injuries can occur when low velocity guns are placed adjacent to the genitalia and accidentally discharged. The testes are endangered and can be devitalized requiring orchidectomy or salvaged by meticulous debridement and primary repair when viability is not compromised.
Highlights
Isolated scrotal gunshot injuries can occur when low velocity guns are placed adjacent to the genitalia and accidentally discharged
We describe the presentation and management of two consecutive cases of isolated scroto-testicular injuries caused by accidental discharges from hand-guns stored in trouser pockets of the patients
2.2 Case summary 2 A 51-year-old male security operative presented with a 3 h history of injury to the scrotum, bleeding, pain and associated injury to the left thigh, following an accidental discharge from a shot gun stored in his right trouser pocket
Summary
Genital gunshot wounds can be extensive involving both penis and scrotum or confined to the scrotum only. This is contingent on the velocity and caliber of the weapon. The self-inflicted variety results from improper handling of guns tucked in trouser pockets or waistband and the frequency seems to be rising. Observance of the principles of prompt surgical exploration, careful debridement and primary repair of injured testes and scrotum leads to satisfactory outcomes
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
