Penetrating craniocerebral missile injuries in the civil disturbances in Northern Ireland

The management of 93 patients with craniocerebral gunshot wounds is reviewed. The contrast between the injuries of urban guerilla warfare, conventional warfare and civilian life is outlined. Emphasis is placed on the need for early and adequate transfusion and for immediate airway control to limit cerebral oedema. Principles of wound surgery evolved in other conflicts were followed and developed.