title: Electronic gun (Taser) injuries.
abstract: The Taser is an electrical weapon used for immobilization. Two hundred eighteen patients who were shot by police with a Taser for violent or criminal behavior were compared to 22 similar patients shot by police with .38 Specials. The long-term morbidity rate was significantly different for "tasered" victims (0%) and for those with bullet wounds (50%) (P less than .05). The mortality rate was also significantly different between "tasered" victims (1.4%), and gunshot wound victims (50%) (P less than .05). Possible complications associated with Taser wounds included contusions, abrasions, and lacerations (38%); mild rhabdomyolysis (1%); and testicular torsion (0.5%). Although 48% of "tasered" patients required hospitalization, all but one was for a preexisting injury or toxic or psychiatric problem. We conclude that Tasers are relatively safe when compared to shooting with more conventional weapons.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D004556:Electric Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000401:mortality / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D004597:Electroshock; D004632:Emergency Medical Services; D005389:Firearms; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot / Q000401:mortality