Hands-on defibrillation: an analysis of electrical current flow through rescuers in direct contact with patients during biphasic external defibrillation.
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Electrical fatalities in Northern Ireland.
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A review of autopsy reports in cases of electrocution in Northern Ireland revealed that there were 50 accidental electrocutions and 9 suicidal electrocutions over a 22 year period (1982 - 2003). No cases of homicidal electrocution were detected in this jurisdiction. Analysis of the cohort of accidental electrocutions showed that there was a clear skew towards young and middle-aged male adults with deaths occurring more frequently in the summer months. Almost 60% of individuals were engaged in occupational tasks when they were accidentally electrocuted. High and low voltage-related deaths occurred with similar frequency and electrical appliances were found to be responsible for approximately one third of accidental electrocutions. The potential hazards of electricity must continue to be stressed in public safety campaigns if these relatively uncommon but tragic deaths are to be prevented. (+info)
Deep-vein and intracardiac thrombosis of unclear aetiology: possible association with intermittent low-voltage electrical trauma.
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Extensive deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) may result from a high-voltage electrical injury. Little is known about the effects of long-term, low-voltage electrical stimulation. We report on the unusual finding of deep-vein thrombosis in a black patient, affecting the superior vena cava and right femoral vein, in association with a right atrial mural thrombus, following low-voltage electrical stimulation of the body for analgesic purposes. The patient had slightly decreased blood levels of proteins C and S, with no other known risk factors. The diagnosis, management and prognosis are discussed. This case demonstrates the need to investigate the cardiovascular effects of chronic, low-voltage electrical stimulation. (+info)
Inappropriate shocks or inappropriate programming? A review of Guidant's reconfirmation algorithm.
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Colonic injury from electric arcing: a significant complication of argon plasma coagulation.
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Argon plasma coagulation is increasingly used in endoscopic haemostasis. This case report illustrates the potential for thermal injury at a staple line remote from the area of argon plasma coagulation treatment as a result of electrical arcing. Increasing numbers of colorectal anastomosis and reconstruction procedures are now being performed using stapling techniques and the use of argon plasma coagulation in these patients has become a common situation in clinical practice. Information about this potential danger should be well disseminated to endoscopists and surgeons to avoid preventable complications. The presence of a staple line nearby should be considered a contra-indication for argon plasma coagulation. (+info)