Chmieliauskas S, Mundinas E, Fomin D, Andriuskeviciute G, Laima S, Jurolaic E, Stasiuniene J, Jasulaitis A. Sudden deaths from positional asphyxia: A case report.
Medicine (Baltimore) 2018;
97:e11041. [PMID:
29901602 PMCID:
PMC6023692 DOI:
10.1097/md.0000000000011041]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE
Positional asphyxia is a rare cause of sudden death and a difficult diagnosis, based mostly on the circumstances of the incident, along with particular external and internal findings, frequent in asphyxia (signs of sudden death).
PATIENT CONCERNS
In this report, we are describing one case of adult who was found positioned in a way that led to eventual asphyxiation.
DIAGNOSES
The final diagnosis of positional asphyxia was determined after the autopsy.
INTERVENTIONS
In a head-down position, gravitation and mechanical forces lead to an increased pressure on the diaphragm from the weight of the abdominal organs. Abdominal breathing, and later, chest breathing were hindered by the raised diaphragm and the difference between abdominal and breathing pressures.
OUTCOMES
It is known that death from positional asphyxia can emerge in several ways, such as the external breathing suppression when the victim's torso is compressed or deformed.
LESSONS
Therefore, the current criteria for positional asphyxia are based on the obstruction of normal gas exchange caused by the body position, the impossibility to move to another position, and the exclusion of other causes of death. The forensic medical examination must also be started at the scene of the incident.
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