Traumatic Rupture of the Thoracic Aorta and Inferior Vena Cava: An Unusual Cause of Death at the Place of Work

Abstract

A case of rupture of both thoracic aorta and inferior vena cava and laceration of the lung with instantaneous death is reported. Because the accident occurred at the place of work and while using modern machinery, it highlights the need for, and use of, safety mechanisms on modern machinery. Regulations controlling the use of such machinery are provided in the Ghana Factories Woodworking Regulations 1959, s. 4 and 5, and these have obviously been disregarded in this particular case.