Severe Injuries Associated with Low Voltage Electrical Injuries- Report of Three Cases
Journal
中華民國整形外科醫學會雜誌
Journal Volume
13
Journal Issue
4
Pages
284-290
Date Issued
2004
Author(s)
Abstract
Severe injuries such as deep thermal burn, cardiopulmonary arrest or immediate death associated with high voltage or lightning electrocution are well reported in the literatures. However, reports of low voltage electrical injuries with severe associated injuries are few. Three cases of low voltage electrical injuries with severe associated injuries were reported. Case 1: A 27-year-old male electrician who suffered from a 110-V electrical injury leading to cardiopulmonary arrest, was dead on arrival (DOA) at the emergency department. After cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the patient was survived with hypoxic encephalopathy demonstrated in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Case 2: A 34-year-old man who sustained a 220-V electrical injury without fall from height had a fracture of the right scapula. Case 3: A 43-year-old male worker sustained a 220-V electrical injury resulting in a 2(superscript nd)~3(superscript rd) degree burn injury involving 2% of total body surface area (TBSA) with rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure. The renal function recovered by adequate hydration without hemodialysis. Through the analysis of these cases and literature review, we suggest: (1). Low voltage electrical injuries may have severe associated injuries. For those patients with suspected, associated injuries, they should be admitted at least for 24 hours and thorough physical examinations are indicated. (2). Laboratory tests for myoglobin, creatine phosphokinase (CK), renal function and electrolyte, etc. are warranted. (3). Cardiac and EKG monitoring, CK-MB and troponin testing should be done for patient with potential cardiac injury. (4). Early fluid resuscitation using formula for crush injury and the urinary output maintenance about 300m1/hour for patient with rhabdomyolysis are warranted.
SDGs
Type
journal article