Penetration of the Heart by an Airgun Pellet: A Case Without Significant Effusion or Valvular Injury.

Abstract

Cardiac gunshot injuries are rare in the United Kingdom, but they are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We present the case of a young male who was shot at close range with a low-caliber air rifle. The projectile entered the thorax through the right axilla, but it was identified at the cardiac apex on initial imaging. Subsequent investigations demonstrated the pellet at the apex of the left ventricle. The potential for embolization was considered, and the pellet was retrieved after surgical exploration. No significant valvular injury was sustained despite the pellet's trajectory, and the patient made an uncomplicated recovery.