Beyond breathless: a case of air infiltrating every cavity

Abstract

Hawaii attracts 10 million tourists annually, with non-residents accounting for 9% of trauma cases, half of which are water-related. We experienced a SCUBA tank injury, causing extensive trauma from pressurized air release. A 53-year-old female, post-Scuba diving, fell onto a SCUBA tank, causing rapid pressurized air discharge. She presented with perineal pain, bloating, and extensive subcutaneous emphysema. CT revealed air in every possible cavity. Thoracostomies and exploratory laparotomy performed, revealing an 80-90% anal sphincter transection. An overlapping anal sphincteroplasty with diverting loop ileostomy was performed. Recovery was uncomplicated. This unique case involves a traumatic SCUBA tank air release causing extensive damage. The patient avoided direct anorectal entry, preventing catastrophic damage but sustained an anal sphincter complex injury. Air likely entered the peritoneum through the levator ani, causing pneumoperitoneum and pneumothoracies. The extensive damage emphasizes the need for safe water sports practices. The patient’s recovery highlights the human body’s resilience in unique situations.