[Explosives-based vole traps-A novel injury pattern in the eye region]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Trauma Surgery
• Forensic Science

Context:

• Novel pistol-like explosive vole traps utilize bolt-action ammunition, posing a risk of facial and eye injuries due to high gas pressure.
• Accidental triggering of these traps has led to emergency presentations with ocular trauma.

Purpose:

• To describe the injury pattern in patients presenting with ocular trauma from explosive vole traps.
• To experimentally assess the risk of penetrating eye injuries from these devices using porcine eyes.

Summary:

• Two patients experienced eye injuries from explosive vole traps, presenting with deep-penetrating, wax-like foreign bodies from the cartridge end caps.
• Experimental analysis on porcine eyes confirmed deep corneal penetration by these particles (up to 46% of corneal thickness at 20 cm).
• Despite deep penetration, no intraocular foreign bodies or penetrating ocular injuries were observed in patients or experimental models.

Impact:

• Highlights the unique injury pattern associated with explosive vole traps, characterized by difficult-to-remove corneal and conjunctival foreign bodies.
• Demonstrates that while deep penetration occurs, the risk of intraocular injury appears low, but surgical intervention may be required for foreign body removal.
• Emphasizes the critical importance of wearing safety goggles when handling these devices to prevent ocular trauma.