Acute and Long-Term Complications of Gunshot Wounds to the Head

Purpose of Review: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) secondary to gunshot wounds is a common problem in the USA and presents with a unique set of acute and chronic complications. Recent Findings: Recent publications in trauma and critical care literature have sought to better understand incidence, demographics, and acute complications of gunshot wounds to the head. These findings, coupled with literature on rehabilitation of TBI patients secondary to gun violence, may help brain injury physiatrists better understand issues which may arise during rehabilitation. Clinical commonalities among TBI patients with gunshot wounds to the head provide a foundation for suggested management paradigms. Summary: Patients with gunshot wounds to the head represent a unique subset of the TBI population associated with the pathophysiology of a penetrating brain injury, including intracranial infection, early seizures, and CSF leak. Mood and substance use disorders may further complicate rehabilitation and require attention to maximize patients’ benefit from rehabilitation.