Pattern of Electrical Injuries in IT City Bangalore-An Autopsy based Retrospective Study

Abstract

Electricity is an integral part of modern society. Bangalore is an IT hub of India, so the use of electricity and electrical appliances is more in this city. It is an autopsy based retrospective study to know the pattern of electrical injuries in fatal electrocution cases. The study was carried out in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Victoria Hospital, attached to Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bangalore, during the period of 12 months from January 2014 to December 2014. During the study period total 3500 medicolegal autopsies were conducted out of which 41 (1.17%) were fatal electrocution cases. Majority 20 (48.8%) of cases of fatal electrocution were young adults in the age group of 21–30 years followed by 31–40 years which include 7 (17.1%) cases. Majority of victims were male 35 (85.4%). In majority 16 (39%) of cases incidence of electrocution occurred at work place followed by home which include 15 (36.6%) cases. In most of the cases 19 (46.3%), there were only entry wounds. While in 1 (2.4%) case there was no electrical mark on the body at all. In majority of cases 31 (75.6%) electric contact marks were present on upper limbs including palms and fingers. In most of the cases 29 (70.7%) surrounding area of electrocution was dry. Most of the victims of electrocution 24 (58.5%) died immediately without any treatment. 21 (51.2%) of victims got electrocuted with high voltage current after coming in contact with high tension wires while 20 (48.8%) died due to low voltage current.