Low-velocity gunshot fractures of the forearm are complex injuries and
previously published studies have not emphasized the problems particular to
these forearm lesions. Of the twenty-nine patients in this series, thirteen
had peripheral nerve injuries, three had impending Voklmann's ischemia, and
ten had delayed union or malunion of fractures after treatment by closed
methods. Only thirteen had none of these problems. Eight patients had
long-term disability resulting either from permanent nerve damage with loss
of sensation or weakness of grip, or from significant loss of motion
following delayed union or malunion. Although external fixation was
adequate for undisplaced fractures, delayed (seven to fourteen days)
primary internal fixation after the initial phase of wound healing had
proved benign gave superior results in displaced fractures.