Report of the President's Commission on the Assassination of President John F. Kennedy

Connally Wrist Operative Record

Dr. Charles Gregory’s operative record dated 11-22-63 addresses Governor Connally’s orthopedic surgery for comminuted fracture of the right distal radius, open secondary to gunshot wound. The operation (debridement of gunshot wound and fracture reduction) ran from 1600 to 1650 under general anesthesia. The dorsal wrist entrance wound measured approximately two cm with tissue loss and contusion at margins, while the exit wound was on the volar surface about two cm above the wrist flexion crease. The wound was developed through muscles and tendons from the radial side to the bone, revealing a transected abductor pollicis longus tendon. Two small bone fragments were removed, along with various small bits of metal submitted to Pathology. Throughout the wound, particularly in superficial layers and tendon sheaths on the radial side, fine bits of cloth consistent with Mohair were identified, corresponding to the patient’s Mohair suit. After thorough debridement and irrigation, the volar exit wound was closed primarily with wire sutures, while the radial entrance wound was only partially closed and left open for drainage due to the Mohair contamination. The radial artery was found intact and pulsating normally; median and ulnar nerve integrity was presumed but not clearly established. A long arm cast was applied with skin tape traction to the thumb and index finger, with the limb suspended from an overhead frame postoperatively. A handwritten note adds a partial transection of the superficial radial nerve or extensor pollicis brevis.