Essentials of low-power electrocution: established and speculated mechanisms

Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2012:2012:5734-40. doi: 10.1109/EMBC.2012.6347297.

Abstract

Even though electrocution has been recognized--and studied--for over a century, there remain several common misconceptions among medical professional as well as lay persons. This review focuses on "low-power" electrocutions rather than on the "high-power" electrocutions such as from lightning and power lines. Low-power electrocution induces ventricular fibrillation (VF). We review the 3 established mechanisms for electrocution: (1) shock on cardiac T-wave, (2) direct induction of VF, and (3) long-term high-rate cardiac capture reducing the VF threshold until VF is induced. There are several electrocution myths addressed, including the concept--often taught in medical school--that direct current causes asystole instead of VF and that electrical exposure can lead to a delayed cardiac arrest by inducing a subclinical ventricular tachycardia (VT). Other misunderstandings are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Electric Injuries*
  • Heart / physiopathology
  • Heart Arrest
  • Humans
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / etiology
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / physiopathology