Blumenthal, RyanJandrell, Ian R.West, Nicholas J.2012-07-112012-07-112012-09Blumenthal, 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. 222-226.0195-7910 (print)1533-404X (online)10.1097/PAF.0b013e31822d319bhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/19400Five 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.enCopyright © 2011 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.LightningBarotraumaOrdnance gelatinHuman tissue simulantsBallistic studiesWound profileWounding mechanismKeraunopathologyKeraunomedicineCurrent impulse generatorHigh voltageTemporary cavity formationPermanent cavity formationExplosive effectsExplosionShock wavePostprint Article