Fatal Blast Wave Injuries Due to Tyre Burst An Unusual Case

Injuries caused by explosion of tyres during servicing are similar to those occurring from landmine explosions with neither thermal nor chemical effects. Though such incidents are rare they may result in a severe injury pattern. This destructive potential of tyre explosions has so far received little attention in medical literature. A 30 years old truck driver was fatally injured by explosion of a truck tyre when he was inflating it at a service station. Due to the blast wave liberated following the explosion he was thrown several feet away. He died upon admission to emergency department. Medico-legal autopsy revealed abrasions over posterior aspect of the body at places, multiple rib fractures, internal organ contusions and lacerations. Paramedical and medical staff should be aware of fatal internal damages caused by such blasts and immediate intervention must hence be initiated. Occupational safety measures, timely screening and proper management is essential for prevention of such deaths.