Intimal tears of the right atrium of the heart due to blunt force injuries to the abdomen. Its mechanism and implications.
We present six cases involving intimal tears of the right atrium of the heart. A proposed mechanism for this injury is discussed, along with implications of the lesion in fatally abused children and traumatized older patients who survive until hospitalization.
Cumberland
G D
GD
Medical Examiner's Office, First Judicial Circuit, Pensacola, Florida.
Riddick
L
L
McConnell
C F
CF
D000007:Abdominal Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D000063:Accidents, Traffic; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002649:Child Abuse; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006325:Heart Atria / Q000293:injuries; D006335:Heart Injuries / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating / Q000150:complications*