[Once again: risk of injury caused by blank pistols].
The nature and extent of the use of blank pistols in Hamburg (according to the Hamburg crime statistics about 300 to 400 such cases per year; 34 cases involving head and neck wounds from 1989 to 1999 were investigated at our institute; among these 8 suicides, no homicide) as well as patterns of injuries caused by close distance blank pistol shots were analysed. 7 of these cases are described in detail. The results of our studies corroborate the warning statements made by many criminological and medico-legal experts regarding the danger inherent in these allegedly harmless weapons. Blank cartridge pistols can, when shot from a close distance, cause most severe injuries involving penetration into body cavities and bodily organs (especially in the head and neck), and even perforation of the skull. Therefore, we call for a much stricter control of weapons of this kind.
Püschel
K
K
Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universität Hamburg.
Kulle
K J
KJ
Koops
E
E
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma / Q000473:pathology*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D005389:Firearms; D006708:Homicide / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012867:Skin / Q000293:injuries / Q000473:pathology; D013405:Suicide / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot / Q000473:pathology*