Does a sixth mechanism exist to explain lightning injuries? Investigating a possible new injury mechanism to determine the cause of injuries related to close lightning flashes
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Date
Authors
Blumenthal, Ryan
Jandrell, Ian R.
West, Nicholas J.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lippencott, Williams & Wilkens
Abstract
Five mechanisms have been described in the literature regarding lightning injury
mechanisms. A sixth mechanism is proposed in this article, namely, lightning
barotrauma. A simple laboratory experiment was conducted using ordnance gelatin
for ballistic studies. Lightning was simulated in a high-voltage laboratory using an
8/20-microsecond current impulse generator and discharged through ballistic gel.
Temporary and permanent cavity formations were confirmed. The cavities formed
were directly proportional to the currents used. Findings suggest that a sixth
mechanism of lightning injury, namely, barotrauma, should be considered.
Description
Keywords
Lightning, Barotrauma, Ordnance gelatin, Human tissue simulants, Ballistic studies, Wound profile, Wounding mechanism, Keraunopathology, Keraunomedicine, Current impulse generator, High voltage, Temporary cavity formation, Permanent cavity formation, Explosive effects, Explosion, Shock wave
Sustainable Development Goals
Citation
Blumenthal, R & Jandrell, IR 2012, 'Does a sixth mechanism exist to explain lightning injuries? Investigating a possible new injury mechanism to determine', American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology, vol. 33, no. 3, pp. 222-226.