Persistent Vegetative State in Electrical Injuries: a 10-year Review elec. inj.

Patients

• 148 adults and children (younger than 14 years), Taiwan

Endpoint

• burns
• respiratory paralysis
• unconsciousness
• neurological consequences (short-term, pain, headache, brain injury)
• death
• long-term consequences (> 1 year): neurological sequels, persistent vegetative state
• rhabdomyolysis
• cardiovascular effects: cardiac failure

Exposure

• lightning
• electric injuries/electrocution, touch current, 50/60 Hz, low voltage, high voltage ≥ 1 kV AC, occupational, personal
• power transmission line, inhouse wiring
• current entry and exit points: stated incompletely