The accidental self-strangulation of a child of 3 years is described. This is an unusual occurrence and has, in this case, resulted from a particular group of circumstances. The features of the case are presented and asphyxial deaths in youg children are reviewed. The dangers of loose wires, cords or other potential ligatures in or adjacent to sleeping or play areas is emphasized. That a relatively small amount of force is required to asphyxiate a child appears to be confirmed by this case.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
BergesonP. S.HernfriedL. S.SonntagP. L. (1977) Infant strangulation. Pediatrics59 (suppl), 1043–6.
2.
FeldmanK. W.SimmsR. J. (1980) Strangulation in childhood: Epidemiology and clinical course. Pediatrics65, 1079–85.
3.
KemperM.GibsonS. (1945) Accidental hanging with recovery. A report of two cases. J. Pediatr.26, 401–5.
4.
MitchellI.DarwishH. Z. (1986) Scarves and engines. Can. Med. Assoc. J.134, 245–6.
5.
OPCS Mortality Statistics — Cause (1976–1985).
6.
SinalS. H.StantonW. A. (1979) Infant strangulation in a mesh portable crib. Pediatrics63, 669–70.
7.
SmialekJ. E.SmialekP. Z.SpitzW. U. (1977) Acidental bed deaths in infants due to unsafe sleeping situations. Clin. Pediatr.16, 1031–6.
8.
VanezisP. (1989) Pathology of Neck Injury. London. Butterworth. p. 71.
