Traumatic asphyxia in the young: report of two cases and literature review

Abstract Background Traumatic asphyxia, also called masque ecchymotique, Ollivier’s syndrome, and Perthes is a rare but serious form of chest trauma described for the first time by Ollivier in 1837. The purpose this study to report our experience with two cases traumatic asphyxia discuss their management view relevant literature. Results During 6-year period, author treated 2 (crush) local teaching hospital. patients were males, aged 20 30 years crushed beneath vehicles. presenting symptoms signs irritability, dyspnea, cervicofacial cyanosis, petechiae, sub-conjunctival hemorrhages. second patient suffered multiple rib fractures, hemopneumothorax, pulmonary contusion, vertebral fracture, paraplegia. Negative surgical exploration suspected cardiac tamponade was performed case, while managed conservatively. survived whereas succumbed because associated injuries. Conclusions Due its widespread lesions, should be looked upon as systemic syndrome. Timely accurate diagnosis supportive treatment save majority asphyxia. In death may result from secondary thoracic compression or