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Prognostic outcome indicators following hanging injuries
D J Penney1, A H L Stewart, M J A Parr
1Intensive Care Unit, Liverpool Hospital, University of New South Wales, Locked Bag 7103, Liverpool NSW 1871, Australia.
Resuscitation
|July 10, 2002
Summary
Suicide attempts by hanging are rising. This study found an 88% survival rate, with Glasgow Coma Score predicting outcomes, and cardiac arrest at the scene indicating non-survival in hanging injury victims.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Trauma Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Hanging is an increasingly common method for suicide attempts.
- Understanding the outcomes and prognostic factors for hanging injuries is crucial for clinical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the outcomes of patients treated for hanging injuries.
- To identify prognostic indicators for survival and neurological outcome in hanging injury victims.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 42 cases of hanging injuries over a 5-year period.
- Analysis of patient data including drug/alcohol ingestion, spinal injuries, survival rates, and neurological outcomes.
- Evaluation of the Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) as a prognostic indicator.
Main Results:
- Drug and/or alcohol ingestion was present in 70% of cases.
- No cervical spine injuries were found, but two thoracic spine fractures occurred.
- An 88% survival rate was observed, with only 5% experiencing poor neurological outcomes.
- The GCS was a significant prognostic indicator.
- Victims without spontaneous cardiac output at the scene did not survive, irrespective of resuscitation efforts.
Conclusions:
- Hanging injuries have a relatively high survival rate with good neurological outcomes in most cases.
- Early assessment of neurological status (GCS) and cardiac output at the scene are critical for predicting survival in hanging injury patients.
- While rare, spinal fractures can occur in hanging injuries, necessitating thorough evaluation.