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Shark attack: review of 86 consecutive cases
1Department of Surgery, University of Natal, Private Bag 7, Congela, Durban 4013, South Africa. Jwoolgar@netactive.co.za
The Journal of Trauma
|May 24, 2001
Summary
Shark attack victims typically sustain minor injuries. However, severe cases with major vascular damage require immediate hemorrhage control and resuscitation for survival, highlighting critical management priorities.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Trauma Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Shark attacks are rare, averaging 50 worldwide annually.
- Incidents attract significant public and media attention despite their infrequency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the nature, treatment, and outcomes of shark attack injuries.
- To identify factors associated with morbidity and mortality in shark attack victims.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of clinical data from 86 consecutive shark attack victims (1980-1999).
- Data sourced from the South African Shark Attack Files.
- Focus on injury characteristics, management strategies, and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- 81% of victims had minor injuries treatable with primary suture.
- 19% experienced severe limb injuries (lacerations >20 cm, soft-tissue loss) leading to higher morbidity and limb loss.
- Exsanguinating hemorrhage from limb vascular injury was the cause of death in 80% of fatalities (8 out of 10).
Conclusions:
- Most shark attack victims sustain non-life-threatening injuries.
- Severe injuries, especially those involving major vascular compromise, necessitate prompt hemorrhage control and resuscitation.
- Effective initial management is crucial for survival in serious shark attack cases.