I wonder if "contuzo" would not be contusion in English. Today, that word normally means a bruise from some kind of blunt force trauma. As I understand it, contusions were relatively common during the black powder period. Musket balls are not shaped for effective penetration, so if it struck a glancing blow or at extreme range, I can see that the projectile would deposit substantial energy, but fail to penetrate - similar to being hit by a basball or cricket ball at any distance. I've also read of soldiers taking a round though the pack or the head dress, with the straps then leaving substantial bruising. I think I also recall stories of soldiers being injured by the passage of a cannonball, though not touched by it. I seem to remember archiving a thread about that some time ago.

One thing I find odd is that if I am right about the meaning of contuzo, then the list specifies injuries from fractures and contusions, but only those immediate causes. What about burns or lacerations for example?

David