Korean J Leg Med.  2009 May;33(1):57-59.

Colorectal Trauma by Compressed Air

• Jo GR
• Lee SY
• Kim KH
• Ahn YW
• Huh GY

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.

Keyword

colorectal trauma; compressed air; pneumoperitoneum

MeSH Terms

Abdominal Pain
Anal Canal
Autopsy
Cause of Death
Colon
Colon, Transverse
Compressed Air
Handling (Psychology)
Pneumoperitoneum
Rupture
Ships