Korean J Leg Med.
2009 May;33(1):57-59.
Colorectal Trauma by Compressed Air
- Affiliations
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- 1Institute of Forensic Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea. kamcho@hanafos.com
Abstract
- A seaman died after a jet of compressed air directed to his anus while working with his colleagues in deck of the ship. He suffered from abdominal pain and distension, and died 5 hours later in the ship. Autopsy was performed and revealed rupture of the splenic flexure of the colon and partial seromuscular tearing in the rectosigmoidal region. We concluded that the cause of death was tension pneumoperitoneum by the pneumatic colonic rupture. The need for education of the workers handling compressed air appliances is emphasized.