Computerized tomography in combat-related craniocerebral penetrating missile injuries

Our experience in the use of computerized tomography (CT) in the evaluation and treatment of combat-related penetrating missile injuries of the head in 12 cases is summarized. Advantages observed in the use of CT include accurate delineation of in-driven bony and metallic fragments, the relation of hematomas to the missile tract and detection of brain abscesses. The availability of a CT scanner for use in military medicine may further reduce the mortality and morbidity due to combat-related cranial missile injuries.