Electrocution as a cause of vascular injury: Case series and literature review

Abstract

Electrocution is a complex trauma affecting the whole organism. High voltages can damage arteries immediately causing vessels rupture or thrombosis, or later having probably resulted in a weakening of the arterial wall.Only a few cases of peripheral arteries rupture after electrocution have been previously reported in literature. Different therapeutic options have been reported and the clinical presentation and the district involved usually determine the preferred strategy and the timing of intervention. Currently, no follow-up is foreseen for asymptomatic patients after electrocution by vascular surgeon. Therefore, we would like to focus attention on the matter, to report our experience, and to review the literature.

Keywords

• Vascular lesions
• Accidental electrocution
• Arterial injury