Title 

Profile and Pattern of Deaths due to Fall from Height- A Prospective Study.

Authors

Manigandaraj G, Selvakumar R

 Abstract

Introduction: Deaths due to fall from height are the second leading cause of injury-related deaths among the general population. The fatalities of the injuries depends on various factors such as the height of fall, the landing position and impact surface. Additionally, complexity of the patterns involved in these injuries & diversity of the injuries emphasizes the need for study in this area. Material & Methods: A prospective autopsy study of deaths due to fall from heights was carried out at the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology attached to Government Kilpauk Medical College & Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu for the year 2020 from 01-01-2020 to 31-12-2020. Results: Among the total 2719 cases autopsied during the study period, 69 cases (2.53 %) were deaths due to fall from height. Maximum deaths were seen in males (78.26%). Maximum number of fall from height cases were seen in the age group of 31-40 Years (42.02%). Discussion: Maximum case of fall from height was seen in those involved in painting as their profession (26.03%). Maximum cases of fall from height were seen in low socio economic status (76.81%). Maximum cases of death due to fall from height were married (69.56%). Maximum cases of fall from height were seen with a distance below 20 feet which constitutes 37.68%. With regards to the surface of impact following fall from height, maximum number was with fall over a hard surface (31.88%). The cause of death in maximum cases was attributed to Cranio-Spinal Injuries (37.68%). The most common manner of death was accidental in nature (82.60%). Conclusion: We concluded to employ certain vital strategies to prevent fall from heights as they carry a significant morbidity and mortality. These include creating awareness amongst workers, increasing parental supervision of toddlers during their play at heights and psychological counselling for students.

keywords 

Impact, Fracture, Pattern of Injuries, Cranio-Spinal Injuries.

DOI