Retained Shotgun Pellets in the Vulva: Case Report.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Vulvar trauma is relatively uncommon and typically occurs in accidental or sports-related injuries. There is limited literature for management of penetrating trauma to the vulva. CASE A 38-year-old G9, P9 woman presented to the gynaecology service for assessment of vulvar injury after a gunshot wound to the right lateral thigh. She underwent initial stabilization and operative management by the Trauma and Plastic Surgery services for predominantly soft-tissue injuries. Multiple gunshot pellets were found embedded in the right labia majora and medial thigh. On assessment, surgical removal was deemed necessary on the basis of symptoms and potential for functional impairment. CONCLUSION: We present the first reported case on the management of vulvar injury secondary to penetrating trauma. The principles of non-obstetrical vulvar trauma management are discussed.