Shock Wave and Cavitation Effect

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High-velocity projectiles of velocity greater than or equal to 332 m/s (those that travel faster than the speed of sound) create a brief cavity within tissues. Studies using high-speed flash photography and blocks of ballistic gelatin have conclusively demonstrated this behavior. The temporary cavity might grow to be 40–60 times the projectile’s diameter. The cavity’s largest interior diameter may even vibrate for a short time. Many experts believe that this transferred shock wave can cause injuries at locations far away from the initial collision. Indeed, “shock waves” are thought to spread across blood-filled arteries, causing endothelial damage and thrombosis at distant places in survival cases. Massive devastation is undeniably seen in solid organs such as the liver, spleen, heart, and, to a lesser extent, the lungs. It’s possible that the liver will be reduced to little, pulped fragments. In the aftermath of such devastation, it may be difficult to explain the proper path. Massive gas expansion plus the impacts of a previous air compression shock wave will clearly produce severe trauma to the hollow and gas-filled viscera. The well-defined track formed by the direct passage of the projectile may be surrounded by a rim of devitalized tissue (the legacy of the temporary cavity) in survival situations. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a point of entry and a point of exit at times. Close examination may reveal the presence of foreign material such as fabric strands that have entered the body as a result of the projectile’s transitory negative pressure (suction). The high-velocity projectile may generate a hole with radiating dividing edges on a regular basis. This is a result of the supersonic shock wave that occurred before it. As a result, the entry wound may be mistaken for an exit wound. Abrasion rims are made in a variety of ways. Shotgun, high-velocity rifle, and heavy-caliber pistol discharges frequently cause massive explosive disruption, especially when the muzzle is pressed against the side of the head or into the mouth. The quick expansion of gases in tandem with the passage of the projectile is responsible for much of the destructive force. A radiological examination can often provide light on the condition. In high-velocity rounds, the so-called “lead snow storm” is common.