01/30/2025

Assessment and Restoration Treatments of Gunshot Wounds

This unique session blends forensic science and restorative art to tackle one of the most challenging aspects of funeral service. To our knowledge, no other CE program focuses exclusively on the treatment and restoration of gunshot wound cases for embalmers and funeral directors. Each year, approximately 45,000 deaths in the U.S. result from gunshot injuries, and this hands-on, case-based session gives embalmers practical techniques for treating wounds from handguns, shotguns, and rifles—improving outcomes for families facing these tragic circumstances.

What You'll Learn:

• Identify and differentiate types of gunshot wounds, including entry vs. exit and contact vs. close-range injuries.
• Apply restorative art techniques based on the type of firearm involved.
• Treat powder burns, stippling, soft tissue damage, and skeletal trauma with confidence.
• Apply restoration techniques involving severe skeletal trauma caused by gunfire.

Dominick J. Astorino
Professor
Worsham College of Mortuary Science and Wayne State University Dept. of Mortuary

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