Table 1 Red Cross wound classification [11]

E (entry)

Estimate the maximum diameter of the entry wound in cm

X (exit)

Estimate the maximum diameter of the exit wound in cm (X = 0 if no exit)

C (cavity)

Can the “cavity” of the wound take two fingers (finger width) before surgery?

C = 0, no

C = 1, yes

F (fracture)

F = 0, no fracture

F = 1, simple fracture, hole, or insignificant comminution

F = 2, clinically significant comminution

V (vital structure)

Is the brain, viscera, or major vessels injured?

V = 0, no vital structure injured

V = N (neurological), penetration of the dura of the brain or spinal cord (includes penetrating injuries of the head or paraplegia due to projectiles)

V = T (thorax or trachea), penetration of the pleura or of the trachea in the neck

V = A (abdomen), penetration of the peritoneum

V = H (hemorrhage), injury of a major peripheral blood vessel, down to the brachial artery in the arm or the popliteal in the leg

M (metallic body)

Bullet or fragments visible on X ray?

M = 0, none

M = 1, one metallic body

M = 2, multiple metallic bodies