Traumatic asphyxia in a case of motor vehicle accident

Traumatic asphyxia is a type of mechanical asphyxia, where respiration is prevented by external pressure on the body, at the same time inhibiting respiratory movements and compromising venous return to the heart. This is commonly seen in motor vehicle accidents or wall collapse where the individual is entrapped. In the present case, a moving truck toppled sideways on to a car, crushing it and the person driving his car. Autopsy revealed distinct cyanosis, bilateral subconjunctivalhaemorrhages, and intense congestion over face and neck. There were no other fatal injuries or natural diseases.