%0 Journal Article
%T Electronic gun (Taser) injuries
%J Annals of emergency medicine
%D 1987
%A Ordog, G. J.
%A Wasserberger, J.
%A Schlater, T.
%A Balasubramanium, S.
%V 16
%N 1
%P 73-78
%X 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.
%G 
%I Elsevier Publishing
%@ 0196-0644
%U http://dx.doi.org/