Bilateral shoulder disarticulation after high-tension electrical burns: a case report

Abstract

Background: High tension electrical burns are rare but devastating injuries with high mortality usually from overwhelming sepsis, poor cardiovascular support and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). However, survivors of such burns have varying degrees of injuries with significant morbidity especially after radical amputation to save their lives. The objective of this case report was to present this rare scenario and highlight the importance of prompt intervention and acute surgical management that improves survival. Case report: This was a descriptive case report of a 23-year-old male, a survivor of high-tension electrical burns (11,000volts) to both upper limbs. He had immediate admission into the intensive care unit with ventilatory support and multi-disciplinary approach to care. He had some investigations which included daily full blood count, serum electrolytes, urea and creatinine, clotting studies, blood sugar, urine analysis, lactate level, iron and creatine kinase studies, chest x-rays, electrocardiogram and abdominopelvic scan. He had multiple blood products transfusion; antibiotic therapy, staged surgeries including bilateral shoulder disarticulation to control sepsis and preserve life. He was discharged home with healed disarticulated shoulders and satisfactory clinical condition after 35 days on admission. Conclusion: Early resuscitation, cardiovascular support in the intensive care unit, urgent wound debridement and amputation of devitalized limb were life-saving interventions. These prompt care improved his survival chances following high -tension electrical burns.