Why Is Shrapnel Dangerous?

A metal shell fragment may cause increased muscle or nerve damage over the years, infection, or pain. Embedded toxic shrapnel can lead to infection or inflammation at the wound site, exposure to chemicals or heavy metals based on what the shrapnel material is, and potential damage to organs or other body systems.

What is shrapnel and why does it cause so many injuries?

Shrapnel is a general term used to describe the fragments thrown off by a bomb or other explosive device. Usually comprised of nails, ball bearings, needles or other small metal objects, these shards are the leading cause of death and injury following the explosion of a shrapnel bomb.

What exactly is shrapnel?

Shrapnel refers to the pieces of a bomb, shell, or bullet that has exploded. During wars, many soldiers are treated for shrapnel wounds. When people are injured or killed by bombs, many of them are hurt by flying shrapnel — sharp, dangerous shards of metal.