Multiple ileal perforations as late complications of electrical injury: A rare case report.

INTRODUCTION

Electric injury-induced intestinal perforation is one of rare and lethal complications. Direct injury and ischemic changes are the mechanism of intestinal perforation. Proper surgical and non-surgical management may increase the survival chance.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 21-year-old male was referred from rural hospital with history of electric burn injury two days before. On arrival, the patient started complaining bloating and abdominal x-ray revealed small intestine dilation. On fourth day post-event, the symptoms worsened and abdominal CT-scan revealed free peritoneal air. Exploratory laparotomy was performed, and two ileal perforations were found. Suturing of perforation and ileostomy were performed. Forequarter amputation of the right superior limb was performed on the seventh day post-event. On the third month, the ileostomy was closed.

CONCLUSION

Intestinal perforation may be one of late complications of electrical injury in abdomen. Proper clinical evaluation and management helps in morbidity and mortality reduction.