Heimlich trauma: a violent maneuver

Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2001 Mar;22(1):65-7. doi: 10.1097/00000433-200103000-00013.

Abstract

The Heimlich maneuver is a life-saving technique for dislodging foreign material from the respiratory tract. This report illustrates intraabdominal injuries, including a large mesenteric laceration, mesenteric contusions, and intraperitoneal hemorrhage, that occurred in a recipient of a vigorously applied Heimlich maneuver. The potential for confusing such injuries with homicidally inflicted injuries is emphasized.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Airway Obstruction / therapy*
  • Autopsy
  • Fatal Outcome
  • First Aid / adverse effects*
  • Foreign Bodies / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mesentery / injuries*
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychotic Disorders*
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / etiology
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / pathology*