A gunshot wound to the neck can be potentially fatal due to the many vital structures located in this small area, such as major blood vessels (carotid, vertebral arteries), airway structures (larynx, trachea), nerves, and the spinal cord. Death can occur quickly, primarily due to massive blood loss (exsanguination) from injured arteries, airway obstruction, or neurological damage. However, survival is possible depending on factors like the exact location of the injury, the caliber of the bullet, promptness of medical treatment, and the extent of damage to vital structures. Some people have survived neck gunshot wounds without needing major surgery if no critical structures were severely injured and they received immediate medical care.
In summary, while getting shot in the neck is often life-threatening and can lead to death within minutes if major blood vessels or the airway are damaged, survival is not impossible with rapid and advanced medical intervention. The severity depends on the precise injuries sustained. If there is injury to key arteries like the carotid, death is likely without immediate surgical control of bleeding, as direct pressure or tourniquets are ineffective in the neck area.
