Penetrating Intracranial Arrow Extraction: our Experience

Abstract

Background: Arrow injury is one of the causes of non-missile penetrating head injury. Penetration may be through natural openings like the eye, nose, or a thin bone. At presentations, most patients are clinically stable. However, some may present with catastrophic vascular injury. Noncontrast Computed Tomography (CT scan) with or without angiography, when indicated, is essential for surgical planning. When impacted to a bone, craniectomy is an option, but when not impacted the best option is a craniotomy with antegrade extraction under vision especially when the arrow is barbed. Often surgery may involve multiple specialists. Broad-spectrum antibiotic prophylaxis is advised likewise tetanus and seizure prevention. Postoperatively patients are followed up and complications are treated.