Textbook of Maritime Medicine

 Low voltage injury      ( < 1000 V )

 High voltage injury     ( > 1000 V )

On board ships electrical burns can be sustained. Burns caused by a voltage below 1000 Volt  are called  low voltage injuries, above 1000 Volt high voltage injuries. Electrical injuries caused by 50 Hz alternating current can induce cardiac dysrhythmia. Cardiovascular monitoring over a period of 24 hours is necessary in case of cardiac disorders, electrocardiogram abnormalities and unconsciousness in order to detect cardiac damage.

Electric current can produce damage of the skin and deeper tissue at the point of entry, transition area and at the point of exit with extensive necrosis of tissue.

Especially high voltage accidents can cause deep necrosis in the whole area of current flow, that are difficult to detect. Necrosis of the muscles results in myoglobinemia and myoglobinuria.  This becomes apparent by dark discolouration of the urine. The emergency treatment should protect the renal function by increased diuresis and infusion therapy.

A definite therapy is only possible in a burn centre. Patients with electrical injuries need undelayed therapy in a specially dedicated ward. Extended and deep necroses often result in amputation of the affected limbs.

For references see 10.6