Analysis of fractures treated in the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, in 1972, with special reference to gunshot wounds and bomb blast injuries.

The total number of patients admitted to the Fracture unit in the Royal Victoria Hospital in 1972 is recorded and classified according to cause. Fractures resulting from gunshot wounds and bomb injuries are examined more closely together with associated injuries and complications. These groups are compared briefly with the open fractures resulting from road traffic accidents. Treatment of fractures in gunshot wounds and bomb injuries is discussed. Reference is made to the mechanisms of injury by gunshot and explosions.