The treatment in such cases, without infection, is noninterference. The lodgment of the missile need not prejudicate the prognosis, and certainly the additional damage in the search for the bullet is not warranted, except under special indications.
Plate 61.
Rifle—Plate 61.
LOWER EXTREMITY.
Gunshot Fracture of the Lower Ends of the Tibia and Fibula.
The course of the bullet was transverse, with the velocity of mid-range.
The fragmentation of the fibula, lying close to the skin, would produce considerable laceration in the wound of exit.
The treatment is conservative. Infection would depend almost entirely upon the integrity of the first dressings and immobilization.
Results should be favorable, with care in subsequent treatment.