Neurological Complications Due to Electrical lnjuries

Abstract

The incidence of electric injuries is relatively common in Turkey. Electrical injuries are classified as low voltage, high voltage and lightning injuries. The high voltage electrical injuries characteristically produce extensive tissue damage and necrosis at the points of entry and exit of the current, and along its path through the body. The degree of damage is directly related to the voltage, amperage, tissue resistance, type and pathway of the current and duration of the contact. Tissue damage after electrical injury is mediated either thermally or electrically. Skeletal muscle cells and, particularly nerve axons are susceptible to electrical damage. Electrical injury may result in various acute and delayed neurological complications such as unconsciousness, amnesia, seizure, cerebeller ataxia, parkinsonism, myelopathy and peripheral neuropathy. Periodical neurological examination should be performed for these patients as it can be considered that they can occur at any period. The rehabilitation program will be more effective if the complication is noticed earlier.